King Edward VII Stakes
June 16, 2011
The Derby passed its first test of form with Pisco Sour’s victory at Ascot. Having finished ninth at Epsom he was the first of the field to return to the track.
The second test occurs in this race when Nathaniel tests the form of Derby second Treasure Beach. There was only a head between them in the Chester Vase and the market will send Nathaniel off favourite today.
World Domination disappointed in the Dante when failing behind Carlton House. Pisco Sour finished 2 1/2 L in front of him in the Dante so todays result will boost Henry Cecil’s confidence in this Ascot derby.
Mighaar was impressive last time out winning a Haydock maiden by 7 L. He had previously come up 2 3/4 L short to Fulgar on his debut.
Michael Stoute is beginning to hit form and Ryan Moore is claimed to ride Fiorente. There not a lot to go on as he has only run twice. His maiden win last time came on very quick ground.
Alexander Pope took the Gallinule at the Curragh while Dordongne had the upper hand over Hurricane Higgins in the Lingfield Derby Trail. Genius Beast lost out last time in the Prix Harcourt but the form of the race was let down in the French Derby where the two in front were well beaten. All three races are recognised Derby trials and therefore must be respected.
The winner of the Dee Stakes, Glens Diamond is a horse on the up having reeled off four straight wins. Richard Fahey’s continues to stretch him in distance and is considering the Melbourne Cup as a long-term aim.
The decisive factor today will likely be the softening ground. Ascot took 11 mm of rain yesterday and more is expected. The track times yesterday were well off standard and further ease will slow it further.
Not many of these have demonstrated form on a soft surface so it may well go against them. One who will enjoy the experience is Fulgar. His headquarters maiden win over Mighaar came on soft last October. His last run in the London Gold Cup at Newbury was in handicap company where he managed third but it’s worth noting last years winner Monteresso was also placed in the same race before going on to capture this.
Luca Cumani must think a lot of this horse or else he wouldn’t pitch him into Group 2 company. The stable came close yesterday with Alkimos coming second and Kieren Fallon might go one better today in the rain softened ground.
