Harry Angel wins Haydock Sprint Cup

Godolphin colt Harry Angel has answered any questions about his ability on wet ground to win the Sprint Cup at Haydock.

The three-year-old quelled any fears about the conditions with a performance out of the top drawer on Saturday (Sunday AEST).

The heavy going was an unknown and connections had only given the thumbs-up to run in the six-furlong (1200m) Group One showpiece less than an hour before start time.

Adam Kirby had Harry Angel up with the pace from the outset down the centre of the course. Godolphin’s other runner, Blue Point, was also prominent but more towards the far side.

The race was settled when Kirby pressed the button and Harry Angel put daylight between himself and his rivals in an instant.

The 2-1 favourite went on to score by four lengths from Tasleet, with The Tin Man a further 1-1/2 lengths away third.

“He’s so good on fast ground there had to be a chance he wouldn’t go on it, but he’s proved he goes on any ground now,” Cox said.

“It’s difficult to change gear on ground like that and to win by four lengths against soft-ground horses was super.

“He’s a champion on fast ground and he’s proved a champion on easier ground now. I’m so pleased.”

Kirby described Harry Angel as a machine.

“I’m a believer in a proper champion can win on any ground, but he’s so fast I was a little bit concerned,” he said.

“He’s a machine. He’s got speed to burn.”

The British Champions Sprint at Ascot on October 21 will be the next target for Harry Angel who is now the even money favourite.