Red Rocks overpowers at Sandown

Undaunted by his failure in the Dubai Sheema Classic four weeks ago, Red Rocks returned to England with a bang on Friday as he overpowered a high-class group in the Group 3, $100,000 Gordon Richards Stakes at Sandown Park.

Winner of last year's Breeders' Cup Turf, Red Rocks benefited from a patient ride from Frankie Dettori, who brought his mount wide to lead at the eighth pole. Red Rocks was two lengths in front of Mashaahed at the line, with Kandidate third. The pacesetting favorite Mountain High faded to finish fifth of six. Red Rocks, sent off the 11-4 second choice, covered the 1 1/4 miles on good ground in 2:09.16.

Winning trainer Brian Meehan said his main objective this year would be a defense of his Breeders' Cup Turf title at Monmouth Park on Oct. 27.