Oxagon Secures Craven Stakes Victory, Boosting Guineas Hopes for Gosden Team

Oxagon made a strong case for the 2000 Guineas with a commanding win in the Betway Craven Stakes. The race saw notable absentees due to dry ground conditions, including Futurity Trophy winner Hawk Mountain and promising Hankelow. Oxagon, partnered with Oisin Murphy, benefited from a controlling ride to secure a comfortable two-length victory. Trainer John Gosden, who trains Oxagon in partnership with his son Thady, expressed his high opinion of the horse, noting that the addition of cheekpieces has helped focus his mind. Gosden remains optimistic about Oxagon's Guineas prospects, despite never having won the Classic. Bookmakers have cut Oxagon's odds to 25-1 from 50-1, and connections are eager to take their chance. Elsewhere, veteran sprinter Run To Freedom proved he still has what it takes with a surprise victory in the Zyn Abernant Stakes at Newmarket, while Portcullis, a son of Frankel, made a spectacular debut in the Betway Wood Ditton Maiden, carrying the colors of the King and Queen to an impressive five-and-a-half-length win.