With Royal Ascot just one week away, the countdown is on as Docklands prepares to return on the first day of the festival to defend his crown in the Group 1 Queen Anne Stakes.
Our classy miler has enjoyed a strong campaign so far this season, making a winning return in the Listed Doncaster Mile before once again stepping up on the international stage with a strong third in the Group 1 Champions Mile at Sha Tin. It was another performance to be very proud of, and hopefully he has saved his best for the royal stage next week!
Trainer Harry Eustace is very pleased with where he has him. He had his final piece of strong work on the July Course last week, as shown in the below video, which was very encouraging. He’ll be freshened up now ahead of the big day.
“We’ll treat this similar to his trip to Hong Kong,” Eustace said. “We don’t need to do too much more with him now, just get him there in good shape. He looks super.”
Docklands has been very consistent at a high level all year and looks set for another big effort, although he faces a competitive field, with Lockinge winner Notable Speech among those lining up. Mark Zahra is set to partner with the entire once again as they bid to repeat their success of 12 months ago.
Also flying the flag for the OTI team at Royal Ascot this year is the Joseph O’Brien-trained Small Fry. He has had two runs over hurdles in recent weeks to build a solid foundation ahead of his return to the flat. While jumping is not his main aim, both outings were very encouraging, and most recently he finished a strong second at Listowel.
Plans for Small Fry are still to be finalised, with two options on the table. The preferred target at this stage is the 4000m Ascot Stakes, although the 2800m Copper Horse Stakes remains under consideration.
Whichever race is chosen, Small Fry heads to Ascot in great order, and it promises to be an exciting week ahead for the team on one of racing’s biggest stages.