Drop in trip can aid Adayar’s glory bid
TODAY’S enthralling Qipco Champion Stakes could barely have attracted a more star-studded field. Derby and King George winner ADAYAR (Ascot, 3.50) renews rivalry with Juddmonte hero Mishriff, while last year’s victor Addeybb bids to retain his title. Throw the improving Prix Dollar winner Dubai Honour into the equation after he was supplemented for £75,000, along with French Derby runner-up Sealiway, and flat fans look set for a feast. This is a trip into the unknown for Adayar, who bids to prove his Group One potency at 10 furlongs for the first time. That will be no easy feat with Mishriff racing over his optimum distance, while a trip to Longchamp for the Arc a fortnight ago may also impact the selection’s performance. However, he would surely not be running if Charlie Appleby had concerns, and his exuberant running style could well be suited to the drop to a mile and a quarter. William Buick was grateful for the presence of front-running Broome in the King George as he fought to gain a hold of Adayar in the early stages and the prospect of a sound gallop should please him. In contrast to Adayar, Mishriff has been trained for this day, although doubts persist over his effort in last year’s renewal when eighth. The form of his stable’s horses and the prevailing soft ground were offered as excuses that day and they may prove valid, but he has been on the go since a successful trip to the Saudi Cup in February. A repeat of his Juddmonte Stakes demolition in August would make him a formidable rival, and it will be fascinating to see if he can repeat that level on autumn ground. Addeybb boasts figures of 11211212 with Tom Marquand on board and it would be no surprise to see him on the scene once more.