Oxagon has emerged as a strong contender for the 2000 Guineas after securing a decisive win in the Betway Craven Stakes. With notable absentees Hawk Mountain and Hankelow missing due to ground conditions, Hidden Force was the favorite to win. However, Oxagon, donning first-time cheekpieces, took the lead and maintained it to claim a comfortable two-length victory. Trainer John Gosden expressed his satisfaction with Oxagon's performance, highlighting the positive impact of the cheekpieces on the horse's focus.
Gosden also reflected on Oxagon's past performances, including a disappointing finish in the Dewhurst, and acknowledged the horse's tendency to get distracted. The victory has propelled Oxagon into the Guineas conversation, with bookmakers shortening his odds to 25-1. Meanwhile, Roger Varian's Avicenna secured the runner-up spot, and the trainer is considering a potential Guineas bid for his charge. In other racing news, veteran sprinter Run To Freedom made a surprise comeback with a win in the Zyn Abernant Stakes, while Portcullis, a son of Frankel, impressed with a spectacular debut success in the Betway Wood Ditton Maiden.