High-flying Sean Levey targets maiden century after big-race double

Sean Levey is firmly focusing on a first career century after enjoying a stellar start to July, a run boosted by a lucrative, big-race double at Newbury on Saturday.

Levey, 33, got up late in the Group 3 Hackwood Stakes aboard 11-1 shot Happy Romance before guiding exciting prospect Gubbass to lead a one-two for boss Richard Hannon in the £200,000 Weatherbys Super Sprint.

The success follows on from Snow Lantern's Group 1 Falmouth win a week earlier and the jockey has now amassed 45 victories this year.

But the priority for Levey is doing everything in his power to achieve 55 more before the end of the year – and if they happen to come in big races that is just a bonus. His previous best is 73.

The jockey said: "The horses are running well and in good form. It's been a good run and it's nice riding horses who aren't the underdogs in the big races. It's great having those rides with a favourite's chance.

"My aim has always been to ride 100 winners in a season, I've missed out on doing it through injury on a few occasions. That's the one thing I really want to tick off. If it's all going well I'd definitely like to do that, then winning all the better races on the way is the icing on the cake really."

Gubbass strides out to win the Super Sprint under Sean LeveyCredit: Alan Crowhurst (Getty Images)

One horse that could play a role in providing more winners is Super Sprint winner Gubbass, who was impressive on only his second start. Levey believes he has plenty of class and could emerge as a leading juvenile this season.

"We're really excited about him, 100 per cent," the jockey said. "Being by Mehmas, he's a lovely, speedy type. I hope he didn't have too hard a run in the Super Sprint and that he can continue to progress.

Watch Gubbass win the Super Sprint

"He's definitely one you'll see in better races later this season. I'm not sure where he goes, I'll leave that to the owners. I played my part on Saturday and I'll do so wherever they pick to go."

Happy Romance had won the Super Sprint last year and is continuing to thrive with her Hackwood win arguably a new career high.

Levey, who has won six races on the daughter of Dandy Man, said: "I'd say she's a solid Group 3 horse but given her attitude and how genuine she is, I think there's every chance she can win better races. She's a six-furlong horse but she's quick enough for five too."

Saturday results, replays and analysis

Read reports from Saturday's racing:

Happy Romance continues as star filly shines for enthusiastic owners

Don't mention the score! Hannon closes on dad's Super Sprint tally with Gubbass

Mark Crehan banned for 28 days after mistaking winning post on Aerion Power

Watch live races through the Racing Post. Log in to your bookmaker account and look on the racecards for eligible races. Click the red 'Watch live now' icon and they're off! Find out how here