Creachadoir took command two furlongs out and powered to an easy three-quarter length victory in the Juddmonte Lockinge Stakes (Eng-I) at Newbury May 17. The victory marked the first group I win for the son of King’s Best, and it also marked the first group I victory of the season for owner Godolphin.
Breaking alertly under rider Frankie Dettori, Creachadoir settled comfortably just behind the early pace set by Rob Roy and Astronomer Royal. That duo battled on the front end for much of the first six furlongs, as Dettori waited patiently for a hole to open.
His patience was rewarded when both the early leaders began to tire. Creachadoir took advantage and shot through between them. He was joined by Khalid Abdullah’s Phoenix Tower, and the two colts set down to battle to the finish.
The battle was short-lived, however, as Creachadoir soon gained the advantage with a furlong to go, and won under a drive. Phoenix Tower held on for second, a neck in front of Tariq.
Final time for the straight mile was 1:38.7 over a good turf course.
Campaigned early in his career by Jim Bolger, Creachadoir was bought privately by Godolphin late last fall. In his first start in 2008 in the royal blue colors, the 4-year-old finished eighth, beaten just three lengths in the Dubai Duty Free (UAE-I).
Trained by Saeed bin Suroor, Creachadoir is out of the Sadler’s Wells mare, Sadima. He is a half-brother to champion and multiple group winner Youmzain. His female family also has produced multiple champion Pilsudski, winner of the 1996 Breeders’ Cup Turf (gr. IT).
Creachadoir powers to victory in the Juddmonte Lockinge Stakes.
