Deauville Diaries

Hear from Mary Saunders, about her time as a shareowner in the Maple Syndicate, with Awaken, a three year old Mehmas filly in training with George Boughey. Awaken ran 4th in the Group 3 Prix de Lieurey this month.

Awaken and Work Rider Megan at morning training in Deauville

We bought a share in the Maple syndicate in October 2024. Awaken is a filly by Mehmas, as was Believing, who we also had so much pleasure from and who was also trained by George Boughey. Cachet was sired by Aclaim, who was a half brother to Mehmas and also trained by George. Obviously a very successful pairing!  

Awaken won at Leicester last year after coming 2nd at Royal Ascot in the Albany. It was an exceedingly hot day and very exciting racing. 

When my daughter, Karen, and I heard that she was racing at Deauville we were in two minds about whether to go to watch her. Karen's daughter, Olivia, had only just returned from 7 weeks in Malaysia with the tail end of a virus, but she was keen to go, so Karen made all the bookings and a few days later we sallied forth. 

We were well looked after by Megan and being a small group it felt very personal. Our only other Highclere owner was Mike Richards who is always delightful company. Incidentally the seafood restaurant in Deauville is well worth a visit - Brasserie Marion!  

Because we were a small group we could spend some time with Awaken before and during saddling. France Galop allow owners access to the stable yard, which is a lovely way to see your horse before racing and give her an extra pat for encouragement!

She is very sweet-tempered and playful, well looked after by George's stable girl, also Megan.

Megan and Awaken cantering

Awaken placed fourth in the Group 3 Prix De Lieurey. She ran a great race, and Ryan Moore rode which is always beneficial to hear his feedback. Awaken could be heading back to a Group 3 in France, and she also has plenty of Blacktype potential in the UK. We look forward to seeing this striking filly run again soon!

Awaken enjoying a leg stretch on the beach

Morning work with Awaken