Hannon considers options

– Richard Hannon is considering the Irish 1000 Guineas and Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot as possible options for Classic victor Billesdon Brook.

The daughter of Champs Elysees sprang a 66-1 shock as she improved markedly for her seasonal reappearance when fourth in the Nell Gwyn Stakes to lift the 1000 Guineas at Newmarket.

"The French Guineas was another option, but there is only one English Guineas," Hannon wrote on his website, www.richardhannonracing.co.uk.

"We will need to come up with a plan now, obviously Ireland and Ascot are very high on the list."

Winning rider Sean Levey was still on a high 24 hours after his big-race victory. He said: "I suppose I had to pinch myself this morning that it had happened. It went to plan.

“I was always very confident she would be in the first four and then she surprised me the rest of the way.

"You never dream of a 66-1 winner in the 1000 Guineas, but she did it well and decisively, and hopefully she can progress. If she progresses she will be a great horse to ride throughout the season."

Celebrations following the victory were kept low key for Levey.

He said: "We went for something to eat afterwards, then I flew back with Richard and went to bed early. I was riding out four lots this morning.

"I will let my hair down at some point, but we are busy at this time of year.

“The moment I do get a bit of time, I will do something then." –

Newmarket