Jamie Osborne is a talented trainer and Hardy Black could well take advantage of his debut run over course and distance. This February foal [born on Valentine's Day] was relatively fancied on his racecourse bow but a slow start scuppered this colt's chances, although the favourite who was clueless, trained by Richard Hannon, won with consummate ease. Osborne's charge wasn't helped by a high draw and raced much too wide. A good-looking sort, he traveled well entering the final bend, but tired in the final furlong as if needing the run. This son of Pastoral Pursuits is out of a winning mare. In fact, he is a half brother to Bronterre who was a narrow loser in the Dewhurst Stakes (Group 1), then subsequently well beaten in the 2,000 Guineas.
Hardy Black cost 50,000gns at the yearling sales, a significant purchase for Patrick Gage & Tony Taylor. Jamie Osborne does particularly well with this horses on their second start and looks sure to progress from that initial outing. This bay colt should be primed for the day and hopefully take advantage of the fancied newcomers if they are a little ring rusty. The betting is of importance and money would be a sign of confidence. However, if priced 13/2 & less sp this youngster could have strong each way claims.