Star two-year-old with ‘blistering speed’ retired as trainer hails him as ‘sensational’

DUAL Group 1 winner Vandeek has hailed as 'sensational' by his joint trainer Simon Crisford after being retired to stud.

Vandeek was one of the best juveniles last season, winning all four of his starts.

Starting off with a maiden win at Nottingham, he was really impressive in the Richmond Stakes at Glorious Goodwood next time.

But the best was firmly yet to come, as he recorded a Group 1 double to end his campaign.

He won both the Prix Morny and Middle Park Stakes, and lots was expected of him this year.

Beaten at odds-on on return, he ran a cracker when third in the July Cup on what turned out to be his final start.

Vandeek will now join the roster at powerhouse breeders Cheveley Park.

His joint-trainer Simon Crisford said: "Vandeek was a brilliant two-year-old for Sheikh Khalid and his amazing turn of foot set him apart from the others.

"His Juddmonte Middle Park victory was sensational and I don't think I've ever seen a better winner of that race.

"He was pure class and it is such a great shame he didn't have the opportunity to fulfil his potential this year."

And his jockey James Doyle continued to heap the praise on the speedster.

Doyle added: "I got a huge thrill from riding Vandeek in the Middle Park and he was an exceptional racehorse blessed with a blistering turn of pace."