Eminent has a notable chance

Drop to 10 furlongs could see him seal Eclipse glory

EMINENT can finally enjoy his moment in the spotlight by winning the Coral-Eclipse at Sandown.

Martyn Meade’s colt was a popular choice for the 2000 Guineas and the Derby after winning the Craven Stakes on his reappearance, but he fell short on each of those occasions.

However, there was little shame in being beaten just three-and-a-half lengths by an on-form Churchill when sixth in the Guineas over what was probably an inadequate mile trip, particularly on the quick ground that Headquarters produced.

Hopes were high of Epsom redemption on his next run, but the race did not really pan out in his favour as he was nearer last than first coming into the straight, when he fairly flew home to finish just under two lengths behind Wings Of Eagles.

Unlike Barney Roy, there are no question marks about him actually getting the trip and as a son of Frankel, it may well be that the drop down to 10 furlongs actually plays in his favour.

Jim Crowley has understandably opted for proven performer Muthmir in the Coral Charge, but his decision can benefit Dane O’Neill who takes the ride on BATTAASH in the Group Three.

Both of the Sheikh Hamdan al Maktoum-owned runners have clear chances, but it was hard not to be taken by Battaash’s bloodless victory on his seasonal bow at the track last month.

GWORN has been in sensational form at Ayr this season and can continue his love affair with the track in the Bet toteexacta At betfred.com Handicap tomorrow. SELECTIONS: SANDOWN: 1.20 Almoreb, 1.50 Battaash, 2.25 Blair House, 3.00 Paco’s Angel, 3.35 EMINENT (NAP), 4.10 High Jinx, 4.40 Frontispiece. DOUBLE: Eminent and Battaash. AYR (Sunday): 1.40 Pouvoir Magique, 2.10 GWORN (NAP), 2.45 Regal Mirage, 3.15 Fred Watson, 3.50 Crazy Tornado, 4.20 Town Charter, 4.55 Dark Profit, 5.30 Perfect Words.