3 minute read
Arab Spring will attempt to confirm his early-season promise of last year when returning from a 282-day absence in what looks a fascinating Dubai Duty Free Finest Surprise Stakes at Newbury.
Connections of the Sir Michael Stoute-trained entire drew stumps following a below-par effort in the Princess Of Wales's Stakes at Newmarket's July meeting, when the evens favourite could finish only fourth of six behind Cavalryman.
Arab Spring was highly thought of as he did have an entry in the Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown in September, but that idea was scrapped and he was given plenty of time to get back on track.
He had looked very much on the upgrade when completing a four-timer inside three months in the Duke Of Edinburgh Handicap at Royal Ascot and is now given a chance to atone in this Group Three contest, registered as the John Porter Stakes.
"It's great to get him back in action. He's had a long time off the track and we're hoping for the best," said Peter Reynolds, racing manager for owners Ballymacoll Stud. "These Group races are always very competitive, but it will bring the horse on a lot, I hope."
Derby third and St Leger runner-up Romsdal runs for the second time this season after making a smooth return to action over 10 furlongs on the Polytrack at Kempton last month.
His trainer John Gosden told the Godolphin website: "Romsdal has been in good form since his win at Kempton. This is obviously a step up in class from his last run and we would not want the ground to dry up too much."
Two other interesting types come from the Richard Hannon stable in the shape of Pether's Moon, who has a 5lb penalty for a Group Two triumph in Turkey, and Leger fourth Windshear, who made a winning seasonal debut at Doncaster.
"Windshear won on his comeback at Doncaster despite the reins breaking close home," the Marlborough trainer told his website.
"He thoroughly deserved that success as he was knocking at the door in some big races last summer, so, while he has a bit to find with St Leger runner-up Romsdal on the book in the John Porter Stakes, this was always going to be his season.
"He will inevitably strip fitter than Pether's Moon, who had a lucrative season last year and has enjoyed a good rest since he got stuck in the mud at Ascot in October. Pether's Moon has his Group Two penalty, which will make it tough."
