Sunday 14 May 2017 12:19, UK
Connections of Beckford are dreaming of Royal Ascot glory after the youngster made a big impression when making a winning debut at the Curragh on Saturday.
Not only was the son of Bated Breath the first two-year-old winner trained by Gordon Elliott, but it was also his first at the Headquarters of Irish Flat racing.
And the victory was the best possible start to the 2017 campaign for the Nick Bradley Racing Club's association with Elliott.
"We're delighted - it's great to get the venture off to a winning start," said Bradley.
"We knew he was a good horse. We didn't realise he would win like that but you never know first time up with a two-year-old for a new trainer.
"He'll go to Royal Ascot now. I'm not sure which race. He'll probably be entered for all three - the Coventry, Windsor Castle and Norfolk. He could run over five or six.
"If I had to choose one now it would be the Norfolk, but we'll have to see where we are nearer the time.
"I've sent Gordon seven two-year-olds. He said he likes three or four of them so it looks like we'll have a bit of fun this year.
"I bought Beckford from the Goffs Orby Sale. He cost 55,000 euros and he's always pleased us at home.
"He's the first two-year-old with Gordon to run for us. The first runner we had with Gordon was Commissioned who won the Queen Alexandra at Royal Ascot last year."
