LIGHT SPARKLED BESIDE THE BEST

Graham Buddry recalls Fantastic Light shining bright in shadow of Galileo

- Graham Buddry

Each season is primarily remembered for one outstanding performer and 2001 was no exception, especially when that horse was as brilliant as the 3yo Galileo was. No doubt he was a champion of the highest class yet because of his brilliance many overlooked, or simply fail to remember, the 5yo he met that year who was at least his equal, Fantastic Light.

Sired on February 13, 1996, the bay colt started his racing career with a bang. At Sandown on 02 August 1998 the Michael Stoute trained inmate started at 8/1 in a seven furlong novice event. Just after half way he appeared to lose his place, unsure of what was expected of him, wandering about and looking at the crowd. John Reid then straightened him out and urged him forward where he shot past the Dettori ridden odds on favourite and sprinted clear to win well.

Twenty days later he returned to Sandown knowing what to do this time. Taking the lead under Reid again inside the final furlong Fantastic Light won cosily from another Dettori fancy. Defeat came next time out on the tricky undulations of Goodwood to round out his two year old season.

Having shown a distinct liking for Sandown it was no surprise to see Fantastic Light start his Classic season there and win again although only by a fast-closing short head as Darryll Holland eased up too quickly approaching the line.

The Derby Trial at Lingfield unfortunately confirmed his dislike of undulating courses as Fantastic Light finished a poor fourth. A head then cost him victory in the Prince of Wales Stakes at Royal Ascot before a return trip to Sandown for the Eclipse. A close third place was followed by a comfortable victory in the Great Voltigeur at York before a trip to Newbury and their Arc Trial. The 1998 Derby winner, High-Rise, was sent off favourite but Fantastic Light sauntered home ahead of his main rival with the rest of the field nine lengths and more further adrift.