Oxagon has thrown his hat into the ring for the 2000 Guineas with a commanding victory in the Betway Craven Stakes. With notable absentees due to the ground conditions, dual Kempton winner Hidden Force was the favorite but Oxagon, wearing first-time cheekpieces, benefited from a controlling ride by Oisin Murphy to win comfortably by two lengths. Trainer John Gosden, who trains the winner in partnership with his son Thady, expressed his high opinion of Oxagon, stating that the addition of cheekpieces has focused the horse's mind. Bookmakers have cut Oxagon's odds to 25-1 from 50-1 for the Guineas, and connections are considering their options.
Meanwhile, veteran sprinter Run To Freedom proved he is still a force to be reckoned with, winning the Zyn Abernant Stakes at Newmarket, and Portcullis made a spectacular debut success in the Betway Wood Ditton Maiden, carrying the colors of the King and Queen to an emphatic five and a half length victory.