American champion Mike Smith is set have his first ride in Britain at Folkestone next week.
Smith is famed for his partnership with the brilliant mare Zenyatta on whom he won 17 races, including 13 Grade Ones headed by the 2009 Breeders’ Cup Classic.
He will be gracing the Kent circuit to partner Gentlemans Code for trainer Wesley Ward in the opening race on a seven-race card, the ladbrokes.com Maiden Stakes.
However, it will not be his first visit to Europe as he won the Irish 2000 Guineas on Fourstars Allstar in 1991.
The five-furlong contest at the Kent track next week is being used as a prep race for the two-year-old gelding ahead of a trip to Royal Ascot.
California-based Ward has a number of horses based in Chantilly with Xavier Nakkachdji in preparation for the Royal meeting where he tasted success with Strike The Tiger and Jealous Again two years ago.
Kate Hills, director of public relations for Arena Leisure, owners of Folkestone racecourse, said: “Obviously we are absolutely delighted Wesley has decided to run Gentlemans Code at Folkestone.
“He has apparently had one run and finished second at Belmont Park so it will be a different experience for him.
“We are also very much looking forward to welcoming champion American jockey Mike Smith. It will certainly be a highlight for Kent’s only racecourse.”
PA AAP TURF
