Denton Hall News
- 04-May-2024: Latest News from Denton Hall Stables the home of Michael Dods Racing
- 03-May-2024: Marcello Si wins for the third time at Newcastle this year
- 02-May-2024: Pol Roger lands third career win under Connor Beasley at Ayr
- 02-Apr-2024: Close Connection loses his maiden tag in the mud at Pontefract
- 25-Mar-2024: William Pyle gets Stallone up on the line for second Newcastle win of 2024
- 09-Mar-2024: Members of Denton Hall Racing and Dods Racing Club enjoy stable visit
- 01-Mar-2024: Abruzzo Mia and Sean Kirrane get March off to a flyer at Newcastle
Gale Force Maya set to stay in training as Dods pays tribute to gallant mare
MICHAEL Dods expects prolific mare Gale Force Maya to stay in training as a seven-year-old after her admirable exploits this season.
Dods, who trains at Denton, near Darlington, described the white-blazed chestnut as one of the toughest horses he’s ever trained.
She gained her fourth win of the season – and her 12th victory overall – in the listed Elevator Garrowby Stakes at York on Saturday. Three of those 2022 wins have come on the Knavesmire, with the other at Newmarket, and in-form Connor Beasley has been in the saddle each time.
Gale Force Maya holds an entry in the Virgin Ayr Gold Cup on September 17 but Dods said the aim is likely to be a listed race for mares and fillies at the Scottish track.
The six-year-old is owned by Frank Lowe – chairman of Magnus Homes – and the trainer will speak to the property developer this week to confirm future plans.
“The plan was always the York race and then the listed race at Ayr over five and a half furlongs, as long as the ground’s decent because she doesn’t want it too soft,” said Dods.
“I haven’t had chance to speak to Frank yet because he’s in America but that was the idea as far as this season goes because there’s not that much left for her.
“She’s been tremendous for us and improved throughout the season. You’d have to say she’s surprised us with just how much she’s come on at her age.
“Because of the way she runs, up at the front end, she never has it easy, and she’s like a lion in her races. She likes her own way at home and gets excited when she goes racing but, once the gates open, she’s definitely turned into one of the toughest we’ve had.
“Frank’s had such a lot of fun with her that his intention was to keep her in training next year so, hopefully, there are more good days to come with her.”
With the listed victory duly bagged, and with a growing reputation for both speed and tenacity, she’s sure to be in demand as a valuable brood mare when her racing days are over.
- Gale Force Maya is pictured winning the Elevator Garrowby Stakes at York on Saturday. Photo: Hannah Ali