Fanshawe at a Loss to Explain Audarya's Poor Nassau Run

James Fanshawe remains at a loss to explain the disappointing run of stable star Audarya  in the July 29 Qatar Nassau Stakes (G1), a race in which she managed to beat just one of her five rivals despite being sent off the 9-4 joint-favorite.

Twice a top-level winner last year when successful in the Darley Prix Jean Romanet (G1) at Deauville and the Maker's Mark Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Turf (G1T) at Keeneland, Audarya returned to action with a bang this season when running dual classic winner Love  to three-quarters of a length in the Prince of Wales's Stakes (G1) at Royal Ascot but failed to build on that performance when finishing 7 3/4 lengths behind Lady Bowthorpe  at Goodwood.

Despite running below par, Audarya has returned to Fanshawe's Pegasus Stables in Newmarket seemingly unscathed, although a close eye will be kept on the 5-year-old before her next target is selected.  

"She's fine and went out for a canter this morning," said Fanshawe July 31. "It's hard to pinpoint what happened but she was fine post race and seemed nice and bright this morning. I was very disappointed. She's really consistent, which is why I'm at a bit of a loss of what to make of it really but the main thing is that she's come out of it fine and we'll pick another race out for her."

Owned by Alison Swinburn, Audarya has winning form on ground ranging from firm to soft and, despite rider William Buick suggesting the good to soft ground at Goodwood may not have favored her, Fanshawe is inclined not to blame Thursday's conditions for her lackluster display.

"William mentioned the ground but she's won on that ground before so I can't use that as an excuse," said Fanshawe. "She just didn't fire and I don't think you can blame anything really."

The Romanet and Breeders' Cup, as well as the Prix de l'Opera Longines (G1) in which she finished a close third last year, are again among the potential targets for Audarya providing nothing sinister surfaces in the next seven days.

"We'll see if anything comes out in the wash in the next week before deciding on our next race," Fanshawe added. "Those races are definitely on the radar again but you've got to make sure she's back on song before you go for them."