Oxagon made a strong statement for the 2000 Guineas with a commanding win in the Betway Craven Stakes. In a field missing key contenders Hawk Mountain and Hankelow due to ground conditions, Oxagon took advantage of a well-timed ride by Oisin Murphy to secure a comfortable two-length victory.
Trained by John Gosden in partnership with his son Thady, Oxagon was making his seasonal debut, wearing first-time cheekpieces that seemed to focus his mind and improve his performance. Gosden expressed his high opinion of Oxagon, citing his previous win at Sandown and a disappointing run in the Dewhurst, where he didn't finish as strongly as expected. The addition of cheekpieces was seen as a significant factor in Oxagon's win, keeping him focused and on task.
Following this victory, bookmakers reduced Oxagon's odds for the Guineas to 25-1, and connections are eager to take their chance in the Classic. Meanwhile, Roger Varian's Avicenna finished second, with the trainer considering both the Newmarket and ParisLongchamp Guineas as potential targets.
In other racing news, veteran sprinter Run To Freedom surprised with a win in the Zyn Abernant Stakes, proving his ability and possibly setting him up for Pattern company races rather than handicaps. Portcullis, a son of Frankel, also made an impressive debut, winning the Betway Wood Ditton Maiden by an emphatic five and a half lengths, sparking excitement about his potential future in racing.