Wootton Bassett Colt Rallies For Maiden Victory

Dermot Weld hopes Esherann (3c Wootton Bassett – Eshera, by Oratorio) can step up in grade after getting off the mark in Wednesday’s mile maiden at Naas.

Runner-up at Leopardstown on debut and subsequently third at the Curragh, the Aga Khan homebred was reunited with Chris Hayes at Naas and raced prominently throughout. Ridden approaching the final furlong, the Wootton Bassett colt dug deep to lead close home, keeping on to score by half a length. The front pair rallied 11 lengths clear of the remainder.

“He battled very well and a very strong ride from Chris Hayes,” Weld reflected. “He answered every call. It was one of those tactical races between two top class riders. Hopefully we’ll get some black-type with him during the year.”