Saamidd impresses in the Champagne Saamidd gave Godolphin a dream start to Ladbrokes St Leger day when winning the Neptune Investment Management Champagne Stakes at Doncaster. The 5-6 favourite breezed clear of Waiter's Dream, who had grudgingly attempted to make the running, passing the two-furlong marker and slalomed earnestly away under Frankie Dettori. Without even hitting top gear, the unbeaten Saamidd still had two and a quarter lengths in reserve of Approve at the line. Dettori said: "From the first day I set my eyes on him I knew he was such a beautiful individual. "You can see how calm he is and he also has a good physique. "He's done it really well." Godolphin racing manager Simon Crisford said: "He has always shown us plenty at home, and at Newbury on his debut he was really good. "He would have been much better suited by a stronger pace here, but he has won it really well - he put the race to bed at the two-furlong pole. "The plan is to go for the Dewhurst now. He has got loads of ability." Harry Herbert, racing manager for Approve's owners, Highclere Thoroughbred Racing, said: "That was a hell of a performance - especially as he was giving the winner 3lb. "The winner got first run on us, but it wouldn't have made much difference. "I'll talk to William (Haggas, trainer) but he may go for the Group One in France (Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere) now that we know he stays seven furlongs. "We'll also keep the Middle Park option open as well." Connections of the Brian Meehan-trained Waiter's Dream were similarly content by his third-placed finish. Patrick McEwan, assistant to the Manton handler, said: "He's run a cracking race and Kieren (Fallon) was delighted with him. "Obviously the winner was superior, but it's up to Brian if he runs again this season." Saamidd is now 7-1 joint favourite with Sky Bet for next year's 2000 Guineas and currently shares top billing for next year's Classic with Zoffany.
