tracked leader, ridden 2f out, led over 1f out, pushed out
chased leaders from 3rd, effort over 3f out, ridden over 2f out, weakened over 1f out
led, ridden 2f out, headed over 1f out, kept on
This looks to be at the mercy of Duke Of Venice, who is now under the care of the Godolphin operation after impressing with his attitude as a juvenile. Birthday Suit has to conclusively prove his stamina so is overlooked as the main danger in favour of Happy Crusader, who did well to finish within four lengths of the French Derby hope Bago on his penultimate effort last term. However, his subsequent effort exposed a few weaknesses in his game and he needs to post an improved performance to come out on top here. Therefore, it is probably best to stick with Duke Of Venice, who was far from disgraced when he finished down the field in Darley Stakes last October. The Theatrical colt was not beaten far on that occasion and he surely has more to offer now that he is a little older. Frankie Dettori has a full book of engagements in the coming week and it is fare to assume that Duke Of Venice will be very high on the list of rides he will be looking forward to the most after his exertions at Newmarket at the weekend.
