Sun Chariot Stakes: Tamfana powers to Newmarket Group One glory for David Menuisier and Colin Keane

Tamfana provided David Menuisier with an overdue first Group One victory of the season courtesy of an impressive display in the Virgin Bet Sun Chariot Stakes at Newmarket, with Inspiral running a gallant race in second.

Having seen Tamfana, Sunway and Wind Chime finish placed in some of the most prestigious races on the calendar, Menuisier can finally celebrate dining at the top table.

With Oisin Murphy claimed to ride the well-backed See The Fire by Andrew Balding, the Frenchman moved swiftly to secure the services of Colin Keane, who despite having never previously won a Group One in England has ridden plenty in Ireland where he is champion jockey.

It proved an inspired choice as, with Inspiral missing the kick as she has developed a habit of doing, Tamfana broke smartly and sat in second behind Darnation.

With Nashwa proving too keen for Hollie Doyle on her first run since Dubai and See The Fire never really threatening to land a blow, it was left to Tamfana to take up the running well over a furlong out.

Inspiral made up plenty of ground under Robert Havlin to claim second, but she was beaten two lengths by the 2/1 favourite, who had previously finished fourth in the 1000 Guineas, third in the French Oaks and fourth in the Grand Prix de Paris.

A delighted Menuisier said: “She did exactly what we hoped she would. We kept it simple, I said to Colin she travels well and quickens, just keep it simple. Wherever you are respect the filly and she will take you there.

“For once everything went smoothly and she really deserves this. It’s a big monkey off our back getting this first Group One, we have a few more big runners this weekend – come on let’s go and get them.

“It’s great for syndicates (Quantum Leap Racing) to be rewarded and this filly was bought for €20,000… €20,000! She’s gone and beat horses by the biggest owners in the world and it is just magic.”

Tamfana holds an entry in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes on Qipco British Champions Day and her trainer was not ruling out a quick return to action at Ascot in two week’s time.

“We will see how the filly she is. She goes on any ground, but at this time of year you just have to play it by ear,” continued Menuisier.

“We will enjoy today and then see how she goes in the next couple of weeks.

“It’s a big sense of achievement this win today, especially when you feel you have missed out a few times. I’m just glad for the filly, before myself. I’m delighted for the horse.”

For Tamfana’s jockey, it was a first time linking up with Menuisier and Murphy’s misfortune at missing out on the ride proved to be the perennial Irish champion jockey’s gain.

Keane said: “I found out Thursday morning I was riding her. It’s unfortunate for Oisin and he had to ride for Andrew (Balding), but it was a brilliant spare to get and I was delighted to get the phone call. It’s the first time I have ridden for David, but they seem a great bunch of connections and I’m delighted for them all.

“I can understand why she had been stepped up in trip before, we didn’t go overly mad, but if you saw her in a true-run mile I think you would see an even better filly again.

“She pinged the gates and rolled forward and just kept it straightforward. She travelled to the front very easy and I would have loved it if Sam (James, on Darnation) was able to bring her a little bit further.

“I wasn’t sure what was coming from behind and I knew Inspiral on her best day would be the one to beat. I wasn’t sure how far away she was, but thankfully my filly quickened away well.”

Of the John and Thady Gosden-trained Inspiral, who counts this race 12 months ago on a CV adorned with six Group One triumphs, Richard Thompson of Cheveley Park Stud said: “It’s been brilliant and what a journey with her. Six Group Ones, a Breeders’ Cup, a couple of Jacques le Marois and a Coronation Stakes.

“Chris (Richardson, Cheveley Park racing manager) and the team at the stud obviously bred her and she has been marvellous for my family and for my mother who will be at home watching. It’s been a brilliant journey.”