Phoenix Of Dreams made his first appearance at a racecourse in 217 days on Monday, as he took to the track at Ayr for Division II of the Class 4 Handicap over six furlongs.

Phoenix Of Dreams preparation for the start of the season was unfortunately extended in April, when he took a knock at home. He was almost ready to make his comeback at that point in time, so having to wait an extra couple of months to get him back out on course was somewhat frustrating, but unavoidable. 

He came through that injury in good order, and didn't miss a step when he was back in full swing following his recovery, and because his fitness levels were good prior to the injury, it wasn't as hard to get him back up to that level as it might've been had Phoenix Of Dreams been out longer. 


Phoenix Of Dreams getting put through his paces in a fast piece of work on the gallops in Malton

Expectations weren't as lofty as they were for Phoenix Of Dreams at the back end of last season, given the injury and the length of time he spent off the track, but trainers John & Sean Quinn told us prior to the race that he'd improve for having the run and that he'd likely need to get back into the rhythm of racing once more. 

Phoenix Of Dreams broke well from the stall and took a keen hold under the guidance of regular partner, Jason Hart. From there, he settled nicely just in behind the early leaders of the race, Arabian Cobra and One Night Thunder. With around two furlongs to go, when the race began to develop, Phoenix Of Dreams got slightly caught out for pace and found himself short of room behind a wall of horses. Jason Hart managed to pull him to the outside to find a gap and the pair ran on well to finish in fourth, marking a really good start to the season. 

WATCH: Jason Hart tells us how the race went from his point of view

We caught up with trainer Sean Quinn the morning after the race and this is what he had to say: 

"Phoenix Of Dreams ran a really good race at Ayr, even better than I expected to be honest which was great.  He showed that after a layoff that he's retained all of his ability and there's a chance he might improve this season, which wouldn't be a surprise as he's maturing as an older sprinter. 

He was comfortable with the ground and we think that a little bit of juice in the turf is important to him. Crucially though, he's come home from Ayr and he's absolutely fine today which is great news.

We can start to plan forward now as we've got a very lightly raced horse for his age going into the second half of the season and try and make that pay."

Hopefully we won't have to wait long to see Phoenix Of Dreams back out on track, and you could be in attendance as one of his Owners for the Day next time out. Check back soon to find out more details about where he'll be heading and how you could be there in person to support him!