‘It’s been overwhelming’ – Richard Hughes reflects on a weekend to remember and plots Group 1 targets for star sprinting fillies

Richard Hughes marked a significant moment in his training career by clinching his first Group 1 victory during the July Cup at Newmarket. His horse, No Half Measures, triumphed at odds of 66-1. This achievement, paired with a Group 3 win at York, highlights Hughes’ ambition with his promising sprinting fillies.

• **Latest News**: Richard Hughes secures first Group 1 win as trainer.
• **Trainer Update**: No Half Measures stuns at 66-1 in July Cup.
• **Industry Insight**: Hughes targets Group 1 races for sprinting fillies.

Breakthrough Weekend for Hughes

In a remarkable feat, No Half Measures, under jockey Neil Callan, came out victorious in the July Cup, overcoming stall 15 and edging past Big Mojo by a neck. This makes Hughes only the second person to win the July Cup as both a jockey and a trainer.

Hughes expressed emotion over this triumph, stating, “It’s been overwhelming. I’ve got the monkey off my back… I can retire now saying I rode a July Cup winner and trained one.” This victory validated his decade-long journey as a trainer.

Star Sprinting Fillies and Future Prospects

With this success setting the tone, Hughes plans ambitious campaigns for his star fillies. Notably, No Half Measures is earmarked for more Group 1 events. Her profile received a boost with her July Cup win, which highlighted her stamina on fast ground. Hughes has plans for her:

• **Coolmore Nunthorpe Stakes** at York in August.
• Alternative at the **Prix de l’Abbaye** in Longchamp if conditions are favourable.

Sayidah Dariyan, owned by Jaber Abdullah, also features in Hughes’ plans. She gained attention with a significant win at Lingfield last year and has shown potential in the 2025 Commonwealth Cup.

• Targeting the **Prix de l’Abbaye** as her autumn challenge.
• Consideration for the **Nunthorpe** if her summer trials impress.

Hughes is opting for a strategic approach by focusing on the relatively weak European sprint division. This move offers his fillies an opportunity to showcase their versatility and performance over varying distances.

Strategic Development and Industry Impact

Highlighting the importance of patience and growth, Hughes noted how No Half Measures improved with each race, and Sayidah Dariyan benefited from her experience at Ascot. He sees a chance to replicate the success of famous fillies like Highfield Princess.

Support from owners such as Richard Gallagher and Jaber Abdullah has been crucial. Gallagher’s decision to buy No Half Measures for just £8,000 proves particularly astute now that she is a Group 1 winner.

Beyond his current stars, Hughes has more talent in his stable that shows promise, such as Mood Queen, entry in the Duchess of Cambridge Stakes, and America Queen, debut winner at twelve lengths.

His recent victories could bolster his standing in the yearling market, particularly with sprint-bred fillies. This development positions Hughes to convert potential into sustained Group 1 success.

For a deeper dive into the dynamics of the July Cup, you can explore insights on the main contenders.