Touleen takes top spot in informative clash with Zanthos Touleen confirmed her debut promise with a classy display at Leicester, leaving connections with high hopes for the future. Touleen shines with Rockfel in sight The Shadwell-owned filly built on her Newbury success by brushing aside the well-fancied Zanthos in the Gascare Services EBF Fillies’ Novice Stakes. Prominent from the outset under William Buick, Touleen travelled strongly and quickened smartly to pull three-and-a-quarter lengths clear, cementing herself as a filly of real potential. Trainer Owen Burrows admitted he had respect for the Crisford-trained favourite but was delighted with how Touleen asserted her authority. “William said she quickened up twice and was easing down at the end… she looks one to look forward to,” Burrows said. With the Rockfel Stakes and Fillies’ Mile both on the agenda, Touleen looks poised to step into Group company in the coming weeks. Zanthos and Blue Courvoisier also in the spotlight Zanthos, although beaten, earned credit from her connections, with Simon Crisford indicating the Rockfel remains firmly in her plans. He suggested the daughter of Sioux Nation would have learned plenty in defeat and remains an exciting prospect. Elsewhere on the Leicester card, Clive Cox unearthed another smart youngster in Blue Courvoisier, who impressed on debut for owner Alan Spence. The son of Sea The Stars, ridden by Rossa Ryan, displayed class and scope to suggest a bright future. Cox said the colt could develop into a high-quality performer next year, though he may be kept away from very soft ground in the immediate term.
