Newspaper Article

RACING:: Record-breaking Rakti routs rivals

EDDIE FREMANTLE:, NEWBURY

2005

Overview

If that sounds straightforward, it was, although Rakti is far from straightforward. He is a Jekyll and Hyde character who, as [Philip Robinson] says: 'sulks if he gets upset'. The jockey added: 'He is so strong that you can't do anything about it if he wants his own way. You need brains, not brawn, to ride him.' [Michael Jarvis] explained that it was always Robinson's intention to take the early lead. 'Philip said that he was sure Rakti would switch off if he were in front.' That he does most of his homework on his own must have helped in that decision and the opposition, led home by Mac Love from Hurricane Alan, were blown away, with Robinson insisting there was more in the tank. Not that the runner-up's trainer was upset. John Akehurst had a big grin on his face as he said: 'I suppose that is the closest I will get to winning a Group One.' Robinson, who said on returning from winning on Rakti after winning the 2003 Champion Stakes over 10 furlongs that 'he is the best miler in the world', concurred, although he pointed out his mount's versatility. 'It is remarkable that a horse with his speed can have won a Derby over a mile-and-a-half,' he said, referring to the 2002 Italian Derby.

• Publisher: Guardian News & Media Limited
• Subject: Butler, Gerard / Jarvis, Michael / Robinson, Philip / Witheford, Gary