Australian sprinter Asfoora is likely to be given a possible Goodwood farewell in the King George Qatar Stakes on July 31 before returning home to begin life at stud, trainer Henry Dwyer has said.
The multiple Group 1 winner disappointed at Sandown on Saturday, but Dwyer reported no physical issue and said the mare had pulled up well after Oisin Murphy looked after her once her chance had gone.
Asfoora is booked to enter quarantine on July 31, the same day as the five-furlong King George Qatar Stakes at the Qatar Goodwood Festival. That timing has left Dwyer with a narrow window to decide whether she races once more in Britain or heads straight towards her broodmare career.
Goodwood Decision To Come After Short Break
Dwyer told Thoroughbred Daily News that Asfoora would be given a week in the paddock before connections reassess, adding that there was “nothing wrong” with her after Sandown.
The trainer said the run may have shown Asfoora no longer wants to be in full work, but also noted she has produced below-par efforts before responding with a major performance next time.
That makes Goodwood the obvious final option. If Dwyer presses on, Asfoora would get one last European sprint assignment before travelling back to Australia, where her racing career is expected to give way to stud duties.
