York performance not up to standard to continue but Lightning Stakes return for Asfoora before globetrotting new year.
Racing in Australia, the United States, France, Ireland and maybe another crack at features in England are all on the agenda for Asfoorain 2025 but for now it will be a break back in Victoria after a sub-par run at York on Friday.
Henry Dwyer is not giving the impression that he is disappointed in the mare’s fourth placing in the Group 1 Nunthorpe Stakes (1000m) behind Bradsell given a Royal Ascot crown and a second-placing at Goodwood has made for the run of a lifetime for the Ballarat-based trainer.
“Her run was a length or two below herself,” Dwyer said.
“I would have liked to go to America for the Breeders’ Cup but that run was below her best and that she is on a downhill (in form) for now.”
Asfoora fell short of adding to her Group 1 record in the UK as the $2.50 favourite but while that was the outcome, Dwyer is still upbeat.
“She is sound enough and has the desire,” he added.
Asfoora’s first outing next year is likely to be the Group 1 Black Caviar Lightning (1000m) at Flemington in February.
