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Mick Appleby plans twin assault on Stewards' Cup at Goodwood

3 minute read

Culturati, Naggers and Orion's Bay were all notable withdrawals at the five-day stage for the Qatar Stewards' Cup at Goodwood.

Heading the weights for Saturday's handicap feature is recent Ascot winner Danzeno, who will carry a 6lb penalty but his revised mark is still below his career-high.

His trainer Mick Appleby is also hoping to run Poyle Vinnie, unplaced in the race for the past two seasons and who is engaged at the course on the opening day.

"The plan is to run both horses, but Poyle Vinnie runs on Tuesday first," said Appleby.

"Danzeno is still running off a lower mark than he has been at his best, even with the penalty.

"It was a frustrating spell with him, knowing how good he was but not winning many races.

"Dropping him in class will hopefully have boosted his confidence and despite top weight, he's still a Group horse in a handicap."

Danzeno was fifth in the Wokingham at Royal Ascot and three who finished in front of him are all due to take him on again.

Saeed bin Suroor's Steady Pace, also placed in the Bunbury Cup subsequently, Roger Charlton's Projection and David Simcock's Polybius are among the favourites.

Growl, Perfect Pasture, Duke Of Firenze and Intisaab are all towards the head of the weights.