Unstoppable Diligent Harry Strikes at Listed Level Once Again

We were blown away by yet another fantastic Listed performance from Diligent Harry, as he returned to the all-weather at Lingfield on Saturday (21^st February) to land the Sprint Stakes. This latest result marks his tenth victory on the all-weather and a back-to-back Listed success – a phenomenal achievement as this remarkable eight-year-old’s relentless, fighting form continues.

After a smart departure from the stalls, Rossa Ryan settled him nicely behind early leaders. In a small field of five, he appeared off the pace as he quietly tracked his rivals until the closing stages. Turning for home, he looked like he still had a lot of ground to make up, but his jockey knew there was more to give. Set alight in the final furlong, he thundered down the outside to seize the lead with much determination and stole the lead with a length and a half to spare.

Coming into this race off the back of a dead-heat victory at the same track last month, it was no surprise he returned carrying a penalty and competing at this level back-to-back, with a drop back in distance, there was a question mark over how the race might unfold. To be walking away with not only a comfortable win after an almighty finish, but a new track record to his name, is a resounding testament to just how gifted this racehorse truly is.

Always a likeable and capable sprinter, Diligent Harry clearly thrives on the all-weather, but days like this make our job even more special. We couldn’t be prouder of him. Huge congratulations to everyone involved in The Diliquents on another outstanding result.

We also wanted to take this moment to commemorate one of his syndicate members, Hazel, who very sadly passed away earlier this month. Hazel has been one of our longest-standing owners and supporters and a great friend to all at Beechdown for over twenty years. Her warmth, kindness and pure adoration for her horses will be deeply missed and this unwavering performance from her beloved Diligent Harry makes Saturday’s victory all the more poignant.