Pershaada produced a decisive late surge to claim the Veuve Clicquot Molecomb Stakes at the Qatar Goodwood Festival on Wednesday, cementing her place among the leading sprinters of the season and opening up the possibility of a shot at the Nunthorpe Stakes at York.
Short-term success, longer-term plans
The Richard Hannon-trained Persian Force filly had shown pace on her turf debut in May and that experience proved valuable after a troubled passage through the five-furlong contest. Ridden by Sean Levey, Pershaada was unable to find clear running at halfway but produced a late, sustained burst to overhaul long-time leader Adonius, who finished two lengths behind in second.
The victory enhances the Queen Mary Stakes form from Royal Ascot, where Pershaada had been fourth to Victorious. Several runners from that race, including Wild Blossom, have since collected Group-level success.
“She’s a very talented filly and I think we might go for the Nunthorpe now,”
Hannon said he was pleased with Pershaada’s performance and highlighted her breeding and the stallion’s prospects. He noted the filly’s previous course form and suggested the weight allowance she would receive could give her a strong chance at York.
What the run means for connections
- Winner: Pershaada (Richard Hannon)
- Runner-up: Adonius (Rebecca Menzies)
- Implication: Consideration of the Nunthorpe Stakes at York
For Adonius and his team, the performance was encouraging. Trainer Rebecca Menzies said she was pleased to demonstrate the horse’s capabilities at this level and suggested alternative targets, including a potential Group 3 in France where the ground might suit him better.
Local and broader context
While Goodwood sits some distance from Stirling, the ripple effects of these Festival results are felt across owners, trainers and breeders nationwide. Pershaada was purchased from Tattersalls Book One, and her progress boosts the profile not only of her trainer but also of her sire, Persian Force. Successes like this can influence future entries to major sprints, bloodstock valuations and plans for autumn targets.
| Race | Distance | Notable result |
|---|---|---|
| Veuve Clicquot Molecomb Stakes | 5 furlongs | Pershaada (winner), Adonius (2nd) |
Connections will now weigh up travel and entries as they decide whether to pursue the Nunthorpe – a high-profile sprint that could be the next stage in Pershaada’s rapid rise. For local racing fans, the filly’s development will be one to watch between now and the late-summer classics.
