The Empire strikes back
Fri 20 Dec 2024
Winner 94 of 2024: REBEL EMPIRE, trained by Richard Hannon and ridden by Joe Leavy (3). ‘Always Gamble Responsibly With BETUK Handicap’ over 6f at Southwell.
It was a glorious sunny day for racing at Southwell, with a good card on display. We had two runners lined up in the 12.35pm, and our MPR stalwart Ustath broke in his usual exuberant fashion and set a strong pace for the rest of the 9 contestants, with Rebel Empire in third, tracking the leading pair. Turning for home, Rebel Empire was switched to the near side and pushed along, before pulling clear to win impressively by over 3 lengths, eased down. An early Christmas present for his owners who have been incredibly patient with our 3-year-old son of Goken who looks to be set for an exciting sprinting campaign.
Timeform rated his maiden success with a t83, saying: “Showed much improved form to get off the mark in great style making tapeta debut in first-time tongue strap after 6 months off, this sort of showing not out of keeping with a useful pedigree so he may well have better still to come now he's up and running; in touch, pushed along 2f out, led 1f out, drew clear, had plenty in hand; sure to be of interest again.”
Watch the full race replay here: https://www.attheraces.com/racecard/Southwell/19-December-2024/1235
Joe Leavy was very complimentary about Rebel Empire on Sky Sports Racing: “He is a horse we always liked in the yard but just needed time to fully mature and grow into his frame. Fantastic to see what he did today after such a long time off the track. His owners should have a fun time with him, especially during the winter, and he could go well again – he won very easy today.”
Read what Syndicate Manager Tim Palin had to say about his maiden success:
“Congratulations to this very authoritative victory from Rebel Empire. He has tested our patience over the past 12 months, and well done to everyone for hanging in there – Christmas came early! All being well with him, it looks like we have a very decent sprinter on our hands. ARC has plenty of bonus incentives on display over the winter, and he could well pick up a few of those. Again, well-done everyone. Fantastic to see him back on a racecourse, but more so returning to the winners enclosure.”