Trainer Adrian Keatley's remarkable charge Aisling Oscar is poised to chase his eighth straight victory this Thursday, with a historic 30-year record firmly within his sights.
Unstoppable Form and Historic Ambitions
The prolific five-year-old gelding has secured seven consecutive wins at Newcastle, demonstrating a dominant and improving form that has captivated the racing world. His next target is the Win £250,000 With BetMGM's Golden Goals Handicap at Southwell Racecourse, where a triumph would see him equal the 1996 feat of the Reg Akehurst-saddled Ballynakelly.
A Bargain Buy with Elite Pedigree
Originally purchased for just 3,200 guineas at the Tattersalls September Online Sale, Aisling Oscar has proven to be an exceptional find. Bloodstock agent Dan Astbury, who also sourced Keatley's useful juvenile jumper Indian River, discovered the seven-furlong and mile runner while searching for a horse for friends.
The son of Rajasinghe and full-brother to Waiting All Night—a thoroughbred with a peak rating of 100—began his winning sequence in November off a modest mark of 46. Following the latest handicapping assessments published on February 3, he now races off a mark of 71, reflecting his dramatic improvement.
Trainer's Confidence and Strategic Success
"Aisling Oscar is getting better and has been more dominant as time has gone on," said Keatley, who is operating at an impressive 50 per cent strike rate over the last fortnight. Based in North Yorkshire since 2019 and with around 40 horses in training at his Malton yard, Keatley added: "We've been having a good ride with him. He's a sound horse who we have been able to back up quickly and avoid penalties for some of his wins. Hopefully he can keep it up."
The Classic-winning trainer highlighted the strategic element to their success, noting: "We have been a bit lucky, having the right horse for the right races. It's his first time on the track at Southwell and that's the only little question mark."
Pursuit of Lucrative Bonus
Beyond the immediate race, Aisling Oscar is working towards the substantial £100,000 all-weather bonus for Horse of the Year. Keatley confirmed that the gelding has already collected his share of monthly prizes, putting him in a strong position to secure the overall award with continued success.
Market Position and Jockey Assignment
Bookmakers William Hill have installed Aisling Oscar as the favourite for Thursday's feature race, offering odds of 7-4. Apprentice jockey Oisin McSweeney, who has previously guided the horse to victory on two occasions, will take the reins once again, aiming to maintain their perfect partnership.
As the racing community watches with anticipation, Aisling Oscar's attempt to match a three-decade-old record adds a significant layer of excitement to the upcoming contest at Southwell.
