Derby hero Adayar close to a comeback

GODOLPHIN trainer Charlie Appleby has pencilled in a belated seasonal debut for 2021 Derby winner Adayar in the September Stakes at Kempton on September 3, after the colt returned to exercise yesterday. Adayar has been on the easy list since a lung infection saw plans scrapped to run him in the Coronation Cup at Epsom on June 3. The 1m 2f Champion Stakes at Ascot on October 15 will be Adayar’s big target rather than a second tilt at the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe after his fourth place to Torquator Tasso last year. Appleby said: ‘He is looking more like the Adayar we were seeing in March and we are delighted.’

Appleby’s Royal Ascot winner Secret State, who landed yesterday’s Coral Beaten-By-A-Length Free Bet Handicap at Goodwood yesterday under William Buick, is regarded as a St Leger prospect.

His Classic credentials will be tested in the Great Voltigeur Stakes at York on August 17.