Syndicate rejects $2.5m bid for Shes Perfect, chasing Prix de Diane glory instead of cash

In a bold display of heart over money, Basher Watts and his 38-strong syndicate have refused a staggering $2.5 million offer from Japan for their star filly, Shes Perfect. Instead, she will remain in their colours as she seeks redemption in Sunday’s Prix de Diane at Chantilly.

The offer arrived just weeks after Shes Perfect crossed the line first in the Poule d’Essai des Pouliches, only to be demoted by stewards for interference. That painful decision still lingers, but Watts believes Sunday offers a shot at vindication.

Speaking with conviction, Watts revealed, “We had an offer of $2.5 million from Japan. It was nowhere near enough compared to what I had in my mind, but it’s a syndicate, so I put it to all the owners.” The overwhelming response was swift. “Thirty-seven said no straight away. We had a vote and followed the procedure and the protocols.”

The filly’s journey has been extraordinary. Purchased privately for just €50,000 at the Arqana breeze-up sale in May last year, she quickly rewarded connections. She won as a two-year-old and narrowly missed victory in a Group 3 at Longchamp on seasonal return. In the Pouliches, she edged Zarigana by a nose, only to be stripped of the win.

For Watts, selling was unthinkable. “I could never imagine her running in someone else’s silks. She’s been our journey and we’ve been part of hers. You get involved in racing with the dream of being at Longchamp in a Classic. Some things in life mean more than money, and I hope she repays our loyalty on Sunday.”

The decision wasn’t purely sentimental. Shes Perfect is the 5-2 favourite with Paddy Power for the 1m2½f Diane, where she’ll face 11 rivals over her first try beyond a mile. With her previous Group 1 placing and strong pedigree, her breeding value is already substantial. Watts added, “Regardless of what happens now, she’s going to be worth a lot for breeding anyway. For me it was a no-brainer.”

The debate over turning down such a sum has divided opinions. Matt Rennie praised the syndicate’s bravery, declaring, “It’s a staggering sum to turn down, but fair play to the Basher Watts syndicate for taking the brave route and continuing to live the dream.” For Rennie, the decision reflects racing’s unique romance—a sport still capable of delivering great stories over financial gain.

“This is David ahead of Goliath, and that’s the story racing needs,” Rennie added, contrasting the syndicate’s choice with the big-money culture dominating other sports.

Yet not all shared the enthusiasm. James Stevens sided with the lone syndicate member who voted to sell. “I would have to side with the one who wanted to sell over the 37,” he argued, calling the $2.5 million offer “more than fair” for a filly yet to prove herself fully at the top level.

Stevens warned of racing’s fragility, citing the tale of Mums Tipple, whose owners reportedly declined a £3 million offer after a runaway victory. While the horse enjoyed a respectable career, it fell short of the huge windfall once on offer. “A bird in the hand and all that,” Stevens concluded.

As Shes Perfect heads to Chantilly, the gamble is clear: glory or regret. But for Basher Watts and his syndicate, the dream outweighs the dollars—for now.