Canford Cliffs my best ever: Hannon

Richard Hannon, a leading trainer for 40 years, declared Canford Cliffs the best horse he has ever had after the colt triumphed in the Group One Sussex Stakes on day two of the Glorious Goodwood meeting on Wednesday.

 

Ridden by Hannon’s son-in-law Richard Hughes, Canford Cliffs, the 4-6 favourite, collared last year’s winner Rip Van Winkle (9-4) in the closing 20 metres to win by a neck.

 

It was a breathtaking performance for the huge crowd watching the prestigious mile-event.

 

“He’s a heart-attack jockey,” quipped Hannon of Hughes, who is noted for late flourishes.

 

Canford Cliffs had three lengths to make up in the final 200 metres but accelerated brilliantly to add to his Irish Guineas and St James’s Palace Stakes successes.

 

“He’s the best horse I’ve ever trained. I don’t think the track suited him... but if he comes home right I’ll be happy,” Hannon, 65, told Channel 4 Racing.”

 

Hughes added: “He’s a superstar. He’s improved out of all knowledge.”

 

Hannon has had thousands of horses through his hands over the years and Canford Cliffs was a 51st winner at Glorious Goodwood meetings.