Runman shows rivals clean heels on debut

Running Lion’s Frankel half-brother, Runman, who like his illustrious sister was born, raised and grazed at Tweenhills, made a very impressive winning 2yo debut at Salisbury on Thursday.

Runman shares both his trainers, John and Thady Gosden, and jockey, Oisin Murphy, with Running Lion and he achieved something even she couldn’t manage when winning on debut. 

He was given a lovely educational ride by Oisin, tracking the leaders before being asked for his run 2f out and smoothly on top from 1f out. That he managed to win by 2¾ lengths from the form horse, St Anton, despite having run keenly to post bodes well for his future. 

Like Running Lion, Runman was bred to David Howden, out of the Dansili mare Bella Nouf who was purchased on his behalf by Tweenhills for 325,000gns at the 2018 Tattersalls December Mare Sale. 

Running Lion won the Listed John Musker Fillies’ Stakes last time, adding to her 2024 Royal Ascot Gr.2 success. 

Runman is a full brother to 2yo Gr.3 winner Majestic Glory, who didn’t win on her debut either. It will be fascinating to see where his trainers point him next.