News Story

Jim Goldie is contemplating taking American Affair abroad in the coming weeks but a trip to the Breeders’ Cup is up in the air still.

Whereas last year he booked his ticket to America with a win at Royal Ascot which he was unable to take up due to injury, this year connections would have to pay their own way.

A crack at the Prix de l’Abbaye looks more likely as long as the ground is not too soft, but there is still a chance he could do both after he ran right up to form when second in the Flying Five to Comanche Brave.

“We had to win to get in to America! We’re probably the second best in Britain over five furlongs at the moment. We might just need to do some crowdfunding to get him there!” said Goldie.

“He showed a lot of speed. Admittedly he probably had the best of the draw but he made good use of it. He could have done without the rain but the winner won well, I’m blaming Jason Hart (on Jm Jungle) for letting him out!

“The winner will probably be a stallion next year as he looks a very valuable asset being by Wootton Bassett.

“We’re thinking about France. I don’t know about America, I don’t even know when we have to enter. Last year they were keen for us to go but I’ve heard nothing this year.

“Katie Scott’s horse Naana’s Shadow will be going to France and she won in an unbelievable time the other day. She could well be favourite.

“Our lad travelled really well on Sunday, Danny (Tudhope) was nearly last to commit, but the only one still on the bridle was Billy (Loughnane on the winner) and unfortunately we were a sitting target.

“If we go to America you think they’d go quick early which would suit us, but in the Nunthorpe the sectionals say we lost the race in the second furlong. Because the winner (Bacio) was so quick out of the gate, we didn’t want to be too far behind and as Paul (Mulrennan) gave him a squeeze to make up the ground he did, but it took its toll late on. We just missed the break slightly and you can’t do that.”