There was plenty to cheer about at Haydock on Saturday as Persica dug deep to land the Group 3 Superior Mile Stakes, providing the team with another fantastic day on the big stage.
The five-year-old son of New Bay travelled beautifully through the mile contest under James Doyle, always looking to be enjoying himself despite the testing conditions.
He battled all the way to the line to prevail by the narrowest of margins, and it was another thoroughly deserved Group Three success for a horse who has been a real pleasure to have around the yard. It certainly felt like redemption after he was beat by a nose in the Diomed at Epsom back in June.
Persica has always had plenty of ability, and it was great to see him rewarded with a big-race success. He has been a consistent performer for us and wears his heart on his sleeve, so to see him tough it out in such a competitive race was satisfying.
James gave him a lovely ride, allowing him to travel comfortably before asking him to do the business in the straight, and he certainly answered the call when it mattered.
A Group Three victory is a fantastic achievement for everyone involved with Persica, from his owners and the team at home who look after him every day, to everyone who has played a part in getting him to this level.
He thoroughly deserved his day in the spotlight, and we couldn’t be more delighted with him.