City Of Delight

The standout result came at Epsom Downs on 22 April 2025, where City Of Delight landed a Class 2 race — one of the better races in British racing. Menuisier admitted afterwards he wasn't even sure the horse would handle the notoriously tricky Epsom track until it hit the rising ground in the final stretch. It looked in danger of being swallowed up, then simply flew. That kind of late surge on one of the most demanding tracks in the country tells you something about a horse's temperament. Jockey Kieran Shoemark put it plainly after another good run: "he has a big heart... his will to win is admirable."

The numbers back that up. City Of Delight has won 5 of 11 races over a mile and three furlongs to a mile and four furlongs — that's a 45% win rate at its preferred distance, which is outstanding. It also thrives on fast, dry ground, winning 2 of 3 races in those conditions, and on normal ground it has won 3 of 5. The picture is clear: give it the right trip and decent underfoot conditions, and this horse is a genuine threat.

Right now, though, City Of Delight is in a rough patch. It hasn't won in its last six races, with finishes of 14th, 9th, 10th, 5th, 8th, and most recently 2nd. Menuisier was candid about the most recent run at Haydock — the horse got stuck out of position, wasted energy fighting for its place in the back straight, and simply didn't perform. The trainer's response is sensible: go back to basics, back to a trip the horse has already proven it can win over. The Chesterfield Cup at Goodwood was on the radar but the horse didn't get an entry. A reset is coming.

Menuisier's yard has sent out 20 winners already this season, so there's plenty of form and confidence behind this horse. City Of Delight raced just yesterday, so it's very much in active training. When it lines up next at a mile and a quarter or beyond on decent ground, it will be worth watching.