MASTER STROKE
Godolphin’s Guineas options
GODOLPHIN strengthened their hand for the Qipco 2,000 Guineas after Master Of The Seas beat stablemate La Barrosa in the Bet365 Craven Stakes at Newmarket.
Despite Master Of The Seas, partnered by William Buick, overcoming more traffic problems than encountered on the M25, the shrewd money suggests One Ruler is the one to give Godolphin a fourth success in next month’s classic.
One Ruler was significantly shortened to 5-1 favourite, while Master Of The Seas is now 8-1.
Charlie Appleby, the trainer of Master Of The Seas, La Barrosa and One Ruler, said: “It’s a nice position to be in to have two or three nice chances for the Guineas.
“We’ll see how Master Of The Seas comes out of this race before William decides who to ride, but it might be hard to get off a Craven winner.
“I’ve been delighted with
One
Ruler’s prep and didn’t feel the need to run him in a trial. France for La Barrosa might come into it.”
Godolphin, Appleby and Buick were also on the mark with Al Waqidi and Creative Force.
John Gosden might not have an ace up his sleeve for the Guineas but has a formidable team for the coming season.
“Stradivarius will run in the Sagaro Stakes at Ascot before going for the Gold Cup,” explained Gosden. “He’s shown he likes Ascot, and it will be a good place to start him off.”
The popular Stradivarius will be hoping to equal Yeats record four victories in the Gold Cup before retiring to stud at the end of the season.
“Palace Pier runs in the Sandown Mile a week tomorrow before the Lockinge,” said the champion trainer. “I’m happy with him.
“Mishriff’s main target will be the Eclipse and then probably Juddmonte International.” the