Sobetsu shines again at Deauville

Sobetsu gained another big-race victory at Deauville, France, with an impressive display in the 10-furlong G2 Prix de la Nonette on Saturday, August 19. 

The three-year-old Dubawi filly, an easy winner of the G1 Prix Saint-Alary over the same course and distance in May, led the 10-strong field early on before settling in third after the first three furlongs under James Doyle. 

Sobetsu, representing Charlie Appleby, ran on to regain the advantage a furlong and a half from home and quickened clear in the closing stages to score by two and a half lengths over Onthemoonagain in 2m 05.94s on good to soft ground. 

Godolphin’s other runner in the race, Strathspey (Andre Fabre/Mickael Barzalona), stayed on well from the rear to finish fourth, beaten just under three and a half lengths in total.

Charlie Appleby said: “It was a very pleasing effort from Sobetsu. We thought that she had a strong chance on the back of her third last time out in the Nassau Stakes and her victory at this course in the Prix Saint-Alary. 

“She has put up a good effort and won well. A mile and a quarter with some ease in the ground are her ideal conditions. 

“We could have a look at coming back to France for the G1 Prix de l’Opera at Chantilly (10f, October 1) or possibly head out to Keeneland for the G1 Queen Elizabeth II Challenge Cup (9f, October 14).”