Significant move for Camelot

CAMELOT (pictured) was yesterday morning cut by a number of firms for Sunday’s Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe with Coral, who make the leading three-year-old 4-1 joint-favourite with Orfevre (from 6-1), describing the money they have seen as “significant’’.

Although connections have yet to confirm Camelot as an intended runner in the Longchamp showpiece, Coral interpreted the move as a sign the race could be on the agenda.

“The money we’ve seen for Camelot suggests an appearance in Sunday’s Arc is looking ever more likely,’’ said firm spokesman David Stevens.

“If connections do send him to Paris, there is every chance the colt could start clear favourite despite his St Leger defeat.’’

Paddy Power cut Camelot to 5-1 (from 6) and their spokesman of the same name said: “We’ve seen a lot of money this morning for Camelot from the type of punter who wouldn't usually be having a bet for no reason.

“The 5-1 is under a bit of pressure as well and the dough would perhaps suggest that he is a likely combatant in Paris.’’

The Aidan O'Brien-trained colt was denied in his Triple Crown bid after suffering a surprise defeat by Encke in last month's Ladbrokes St Leger at Doncaster.

O'Brien said on Sunday: “We will know our plans [with Camelot] Tuesday or Wednesday. We don’t like Joseph doing any less than 8st 13lb.

“I know he did 8st 13lb yesterday but in an ideal world it would be no lighter than 9st.

“He's too tall and there’s no more to come off him. Bar we cut off one of his arms, he will not be on Camelot.’’

Camelot has been ridden exclusively by O'Brien, but if he does run in the Arc and Sea Moon doesn't, Ryan Moore is likely to be considered, assuming of course he is back from his wrist injury. - Racingpost.com