Friendly Soul

“Her race record has been pretty spectacular this season and it really was push button stuff today. I thought we were going sensible on the front end and Friendly Soul had a wicked turn of foot when I needed it - Kieran Shoemark, jockey, speaking on Sky Sports Racing.”

“Friendly Soul has only got one blot on her copybook when we rode her wrong in the Musidora. She likes to use her stride. She doesn't have to be on the lead but she doesn't like to be restrained. I don't think she particularly found the ground to her liking, it's tacky and holding out there. If the ground is like last year the Opera would be an option, but not if it's tres souple [very soft]. A mile and three around Del Mar [ Breeders' Cup Filly and Mare Turf ] is like a mile and two in Europe, as it's not a demanding track. It's just the shortest straight in America. But she'll tell us if she wants to go - John Gosden, joint-trainer.”

“Friendly Soul was drawn nine in the Musidora and came out of the gates with the racecourse stables on her right and she cocked her jaw. She's a strong-willed lady and cocked her jaw all the way around there which explained that run. We gave her time afterwards, brought her back for this and she's done it in good style. She's the type of filly to get better as the year goes on and I think she's going to be a lovely filly next year - John Gosden, joint-trainer.”

“Friendly Soul hung throughout the whole race. She's not done that with me before. I couldn't steer her - Kieran Shoemark, rider.”

“I think it was a good race. Our other filly (Strutting) was fourth - I think she is more of a staying filly. I was impressed with the second when she won here at the Craven meeting. I think it was a solid race today as the front two drew away from the field. Friendly Soul is a lovely filly and I think she is a mile and a quarter filly. She won't be an Epsom filly but we might make a visit to Chantilly (for the French Oaks) - John Gosden, joint-trainer.”