Oxagon made a successful return to the track with a commanding win in the Betway Craven Stakes, throwing his hat into the ring for the 2000 Guineas. With key contenders Hawk Mountain and Hankelow absent due to the ground conditions, Oxagon took advantage of the situation, benefiting from a well-timed ride by Oisin Murphy to secure a two-length victory. Trainer John Gosden, who trains the winner in partnership with his son Thady, expressed his delight with the performance, highlighting the positive impact of the first-time use of cheekpieces on the horse's focus. Gosden, who has yet to win the Guineas, is now considering a run in the Classic, with Oxagon's odds being cut to 25-1.
The Clarehaven handler remains upbeat about his chances, stating that Oxagon deserves a shot at the Guineas, despite acknowledging the strong competition. Meanwhile, Roger Varian's Avicenna finished second, with the trainer also harboring Guineas ambitions for his charge, whether in the UK or France.
The Craven Stakes has traditionally been a key trial for the Guineas, and this year's renewal has added to the excitement surrounding the upcoming Classic.