Plenty to like from Tidal Force’s Haydock debut
Tidal Force made his racecourse debut at Haydock yesterday and there was plenty to be encouraged by following a really positive first experience.
The two-year-old was impeccably behaved throughout the afternoon and certainly looked the part in the paddock. Beautifully turned out and exceptionally well in his coat, he took everything in his stride before heading out onto the track for the first time. It was particularly pleasing to see just how settled and relaxed he was throughout the afternoon, with his gelding operation clearly having worked and allowing him to channel his energy in all the right ways.
Partnered by David Probert, Tidal Force broke smartly from the stalls and travelled nicely through the early stages, looking comfortable among his rivals in the middle of the field.
WATCH: Jockey David Probert discuss Tidal Force's first run
As the race began to develop he found himself squeezed for room and was hampered when asked to make his effort just over two furlongs from home. He showed a little greenness when things became tighter around him and after travelling well through the opening stages, he began to tire towards the finish.
The race itself was won by Karl Burke’s Burning Up, who followed up his previous course and distance success despite carrying a 7lb penalty. The favourite took up the running in the closing stages before going clear, while Michael Bell’s newcomer Hands To Yourself produced an encouraging first effort to finish second.
There was so much to like about Tidal Force’s first day at the races. From his behaviour beforehand to the way he broke and travelled through the early part of the race, he gave us plenty of reasons to be proud and will have learned a huge amount from the experience.
Most importantly, he conducted himself beautifully throughout the day and we could not have been prouder of him.
With that first racecourse experience now under his belt, we’re really looking forward to seeing what our lovely Tidal Force can do next.