Strad tuned up
STRADIVARIUS, one of the giants in staying races, can overcome the drop in distance by taking today’s Coronation Cup at Newmarket.
The dual winner of the Ascot, Goodwood and Lonsdale Cups over two miles, reverts to 12 furlongs for the first time in three years.
On that occasion he was beaten at Chester by Here And Now, conceding 13lb.
Since that defeat STRADIVARIUS (3.35, nb) has done nothing but improve and now is very much at the top of his game.
The same cannot be said of Anthony Van Dyck, beaten in his five starts since winning last year’s Derby. Ghaiyyath comes here on the back of a win at Meydan in February. He has always been held in high regard but has yet to convince.
SANGARIUS (3.00, nap), an impressive winner at Royal Ascot last year, can make a winning return in the Paradise Stakes.
The son of Kingman has the stature to develop into an even better prospect this season and with his trainer, Michael Stoute, having his team in cracking form he is not for catching.
KEYSTROKE (2.25) can make it back-to-back wins in the Abernant Stakes. He had the smart Brando behind him in last year’s contest and there is no reason why he cannot confirm that running.
The drop in grade should have the desired effect for VERBOTEN (2.05, treble) at Lingfield.
He took his chance in a Group One at Newcastle last term where he finished seventh behind Kameko.
On his previous run he impressed when successful at Yarmouth in July.
His trainer, John Gosden, has the answer in the Oaks Trial with MISS YODA (2.40).
The filly will appreciate this better ground. On her final start at Newmarket in October, she ran a decent race when second to MaxVega.
The progressive SOUND OF CANNONS (3.15) has the credentials to take the Derby Trial.