Pollyanna to beat colts in Prix Morny

Racing on the domestic front is quiet this weekend as the sport gears itself up for York’s talentpacked Ebor meeting, which commences on Wednesday. However, there is some compelling racing at Deauville tomorrow when nine high-class juveniles contest the Darley Prix Morny (At The Races, Racing UK, 2.40pm).

Not that many trainers are keen for their fillies to take on the colts in this Group One but the very speedy Lady Aurelia did win two years ago and this year there are three females in the line up.

Pretty Pollyanna stormed home to win the Duchess of Cambridge Stakes by seven lengths and that form is looking top class, with two of those behind having won at Group level. Michael Bell’s filly looks sure to take some beating.

Karl Burkle saddled the first two in the race a year ago and once more fires two arrows at the target. Comedy, a filly, and True Mason are both progressive and have experience of racing in France. Expecting a repeat performance from the Yorkshire trainer may be too optimistic, but both can figure in a fascinating race.

Burke’s stable star Laurens, the game winner of the French Oaks, is one of 11 fillies left in Thursday’s Yorkshire Oaks at yesterday’s declaration stage and the trainer reports her in grand form, saying: “She had her final piece of work this morning and she went as well as I’ve seen her, to be honest.

“We’re very happy with her. She’ll have a pipe-opener on Tuesday and that will be it. We’re looking forward to the race.”

The winners of the Epsom Oaks and Irish Oaks – Forever Together and Sea Of Class – are also among those that remain in the race.