A Group 1 Celebration for Orthodox in the Middle Park Stakes

The Beechdown team celebrated an absolutely fantastic day of racing on Saturday (26th September), as Orthodox landed his first Group 1 victory in the Middle Park Stakes at Newmarket.

Following his highly commendable Group 2 success at Royal Ascot, where he dominated the field to win the Norfolk Stakes, a trip across the Channel to Deauville saw conditions prove less than favourable, bringing his unbeaten record to an end. It was therefore a real thrill to see him return to winning ways on the Rowley Mile, producing another first-class performance.

This was Orthodox’s first attempt on the undulating ground at Newmarket, but he travelled supremely well throughout and once again demonstrated what a consummate professional he is. With Rossa Ryan on board, a partnership already well acquainted with success, he was expertly balanced as they travelled down the hill before finding another gear on the climb for home.

In the closing stages, his trademark speed came to the fore in an explosive finish, as he edged out Amo Racing’s Force Noir by a neck to secure a memorable Group 1 victory.

Orthodox has established himself as a standout talent among this year’s two-year-olds, and we feel incredibly privileged to be part of his journey. The Middle Park Stakes also holds a very special place in Beechdown’s history, having first won the race in 2012 with Reckless Abandon, who delivered our first Group 1 victory on British turf, before returning to the winner’s enclosure in 2020 with Supremacy, also owned by Jason Goddard.

To be back at Newmarket once again, celebrating another Middle Park Stakes victory with Jason and another hugely gifted sprinter, made the occasion particularly special.

Performances like this are what we all dream of, and we couldn’t be prouder of Orthodox and everything he has achieved so far. He possesses an impeccable attitude towards his racing, coupled with a natural aptitude for speed, making him an incredibly exciting prospect for the future. There is undoubtedly more to come from this talented colt, and we’re hugely excited for what lies ahead.