Smaller outfits can still dream big

IT is said Flat racing is the preserve of the super-rich, but last year’s Royal Ascot was a reminder that with a bit of luck smaller breeders can play ball with the superpowers of Coolmore and Godolphin on the biggest stage of all. Of the 36 races at last season’s expanded fixture, a third of tthe winners were bred at a covering fee of only ten grand or less in British pounds. And these were not confined to the handicaps, with Battaash, Pyledriver (left) and The Lir Jet striking gold with Group-race honours. It keeps the dream alive for everyone.