OF RACING
John Gosden’s was by far the most impressive unit in the parade ring, a big, good looking youngster and he was very strong in the betting, going off as the 6-4 favourite.
Someone close to the horse in the parade ring told me was working nicely at home but was also very green.
Racing prominently from the start, and pulling quite hard, he was positioned wide of his rivals.
The pace slowed up at halfway but the son of Kingman was always going well and once Robert Havlin gave him an inch of rein, he fairly shot clear of his more experienced rivals.
Again showing his greenness, Waldkonig drifted over the stands’ side but was still a mighty nine lengths clear.
Being a half-brother to Arc winner Waldgeist, there is no doubt that he should stay 10 furlongs and probably further but Kingman gives him more than his fair share of speed as well.
I have already backed him for the Derby but also had a tipple at 40-1 straight after that Wolverhampton win for the 2000 Guineas (now 20s) as his speed could prove his biggest asset.
I have also had a longer-range bet on him for the Champion Stakes at Ascot which could well be a suitable aim if he lives up to his reputation.
But wherever he goes, Waldkonig looks an exceptional prospect.
Now something completely different.
Following his last-flight fall in the Triumph Hurdle, Goshen will have plenty of followers when he returns to the Flat with the Ebor being talked about as his ultimate aim.
The market generally has him marked up as the 12-1 favourite but that means there are other alternatives at muchbigger prices and at those odds, both
and both 33-1, look much better value.
I have already spoken about the first named in a recent column and it could be Alan King’s charge is up to Cup class.
Dubai Future has only raced five times, the last three being at Meydan.
What this son of Dubawi needs is a fast-run contest and to be hidden away in midfield, putting his high-cruising speed to good use.
I expect him to make great strides this season as his stamina comes into play.