3 minute read

Marco Botti is hoping Dylan Mouth's impressive victory in Saturday's Old Newton Cup will earn him a late reprieve from going under the hammer at the Tattersalls July Sale later this week.

The six-year-old was a multiple Group One winner for the trainer's brother Stefano Botti in Italy a few years ago, but has failed to reach the same heights since arriving in Britain.

He showed his true colours at Haydock, though, coming from off the pace to win what is traditionally a fiercely-competitive handicap in impressive style.

While Dylan Mouth's 25-1 success was a shock for punters, Botti was pleased to see a long-term plan come together.

"I was surprised he was 25-1, to be honest," said the Newmarket handler.

"He ran some good races at the Dubai Carnival earlier in the year, but he's a horse who hasn't been very lucky in England as he has usually run too keen.

"I told the owner a while ago the Old Newton Cup could suit him as it's a valuable handicap with a big field and hopefully he would get the strong pace that he needs.

"The few showers they had at Haydock helped and I thought Harry Bentley gave him a brilliant ride as he got him switched off and I knew if he did that the horse had enough ability to win.

"He's in the Tattersalls July Sale on Friday, but I'm hoping the owner will have a change of mind. I know he is considering it at the moment, so we'll see what happens.

"He's a very sound horse and I think there is more fun to be had with him.

"I haven't made any plans for him as I'm waiting to see whether he's going to be sold, but a race I think could really suit him is the Canadian International in October."