Frankie Dettori cut an optimistic figure at Sandown after newcomer Shamshon provided the first of what he hopes will be many more winners in the colours of Sheikh Joaan Bin Hamad Al Thani.
It was only at the start of this month that the ambitious Qatari owner offered the Italian the chance of a new beginning, following his departure from Godolphin and recent comeback from a six-month suspension.
The agreement will see Dettori regularly required in France for the likes of Treve and Style Vendome, while Shamshon is one of a few horses he can look forward to with Richard Hannon.
Fresh from test-driving the Prix Jacques Le Marois-bound Olympic Glory on Hannon’s Wiltshire gallops earlier in the day, he was given the leg-up on the 8-11 favourite in the British Stallion Studs EBF Maiden Stakes and there will not be many more straightforward successes in the grey and maroon silks.
Shamshon made a prompt exit from the stalls and left his three rivals toiling as he zipped six lengths clear down the five-furlong chute.
“I rode him about a fortnight ago and I thought he was one of the nicer horses,” said Dettori.
“Richard had entered him in a few places but I couldn’t ride him. Hopefully he’ll go on to better things.
“Everyone has been getting in a panic about me being quiet this summer, but I didn’t have a job and now I’ve hopefully got some nice two-year-olds to look forward to towards the end of the season.
“I’m really pleased to get the first one in my new job. I think I’ve 11 or 12 to ride over here and 50 in France for all sorts of trainers.”
