Deauville Sunday Preview
Published:Dawn Approach, beaten by Toronado’s late swoop in the Sussex Stakes last week, bids to get back on the winning trail in the Group One Prix Jacques Le Marois on Sunday.
The 2000 Guineas winner had bounced back from his Derby disappointment to fight off Hannon’s colt at Royal Ascot but could not repel him on the Sussex Downs. Toronado is an absentee here but there is still a top class field in opposition.
The home team is led by French Derby winner Intello, arguably unlucky when a fast finishing third in the French Guineas. Victory at Chantilly was never in doubt and the son of Galileo confirmed his well-being with an easy success in the Prix Messidor over a mile last month.
Moonlight Cloud is another big danger having won the Prix Maurice de Gheest for the third time last weekend. The five-year-old mare tracked Lethal Force and took it up in the closing stages for a comprehensive victory.
She has form over a mile and should not be underestimated. It is a measure of the quality of the field that Elusive Kate is priced up at 8-1. She confirmed that her Falmouth Stakes win over Sky Lantern was thoroughly deserved when following up in the Group 1 Prix Rothschild.
Declaration Of War was a good third in the Sussex Stakes but it would be a surprise if he could turn the form around with Dawn Approach. Aljamaaheer was withdrawn from the Lennox Stakes at Goodwood due to the softening ground and connections will be hoping that the ground is no worse than good here.
The admirably consistent colt finished behind Declaration Of War at Royal Ascot but could be capable of running into a place if the rain stays away. Hannon is represented by Olympic Glory who has not been seen since disappointing in the French Guineas.
