Oxagon has thrown his hat into the ring for the 2000 Guineas with a commanding victory in the Betway Craven Stakes. The win marks a triumphant return to form for the horse, who had not been seen since finishing last in testing conditions at Doncaster in October.
With the favourites Hawk Mountain and Hankelow absent due to the dry ground, Hidden Force was the 11-10 favourite, but Oxagon, wearing first-time cheekpieces, took control under Oisin Murphy's ride 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, suggesting that the addition of cheekpieces has focused the horse's mind. Oxagon's odds for the Guineas have been cut to 25-1 from 50-1, and connections are eager to take a chance in the classic race. Meanwhile, veteran sprinter Run To Freedom proved he still has what it takes with a surprise victory in the Zyn Abernant Stakes at Newmarket, and Portcullis, a son of Frankel, made a spectacular debut in the Betway Wood Ditton Maiden, carrying the colours of the King and Queen to an emphatic five-and-a-half-length win.