Western Daily Press (Saturday)
Ottoman Emperor can reign
OTTOMAN Emperor looks decent value against odds-on favourite Hurricane Lane in the Cazoo St Leger at Doncaster.
The final Classic of the season is a fascinating affair and appears to revolve around the market leader.
He has lost just once in his life, at Epsom in the Derby when third to unfancied stablemate Adayar – who of course proved that was no fluke when winning the King George.
Since that defeat, Hurricane Lane has landed the Irish Derby in pretty dramatic style when catching Lone Eagle late on and looked a different proposition again when winning the Grand Prix de Paris in France.
However, it is that display which arguably gives a reason for taking him on – he showed so much speed there that if he truly stays one mile, six furlongs and 115 yards, then he is something out of the ordinary. It is not being controversial to suggest were it not for Adayar, Hurricane Lane would surely be the stable’s number one Arc hope – and the best prep for that is not stretching him out this far at Doncaster.
On the other hand, Ottoman Emperor looks sure to stay, given the manner of his Gordon Stakes victory at Goodwood. He is still clearly improving – and until his winning streak is ended, we have no idea just how good he might be.
At the prices, Johnny Murtagh’s charge looks a value option.
Meanwhile, the front-running Wells Farhh Go is of definite interest from stall one in the Tote+ Stand Cup Stakes at Chester.