3 minute read

Cannock Chase puts his tall reputation on the line at Chester on Thursday when he runs in the Betfair Huxley Stakes.

Sir Michael Stoute's four-year-old went unbeaten in three races last season, culminating in a striking victory in the Tercentenary Stakes at Royal Ascot.

Although he was held up by minor ailments for the rest of the campaign, Cannock Chase made an encouraging return a fortnight ago, when third in the Gordon Richards Stakes at Sandown.

Bruce Raymond, racing manager for owner Saeed Suhail, said: "We were delighted with him at Sandown on ground that was probably a bit soft for him.

"The ground might be soft again at Chester, and I don't think Sir Michael would run him if it got too bad.

"He needed the run at Sandown in preparation for the rest of the season, so the ground maybe took the edge off him, fitness-wise.

"The ground should not be as big an issue now he's a fitter horse.

"I'd be surprised if he didn't turn out to be a very decent horse this summer."

Ralph Beckett has welcomed the recent rainfall on the Roodee as Air Pilot makes his seasonal bow.

The six-year-old gelding rattled off three victories in 2014 and was also a close third in the Darley Stakes at Newmarket last October.

"It's a perfect race to start off," said Beckett.

"He's in good shape and his work this spring has been fine. The rain that has fallen will suit him as he's better when there's juice in the ground."

Saeed bin Suroor is unperturbed by the prospect of challenging conditions for Windhoek, who must carry a 5lb penalty on his first outing since winning a Listed race in Turkey last September.

"Windhoek has done well after a break, but this will be his first run back," said the Godolphin trainer.

"It will be tough with a penalty but we have been very happy with him at home. I do not think the ground will be a problem."

Godolphin throw a second dart at the board in the shape of the John Gosden-trained Maverick Wave, who has plenty of form on soft ground and made hay on the all-weather this winter.

Gosden told www.godolphin.com: "Maverick Wave is in good form and he will enjoy the cut in the ground."

The much-travelled Grandeur has a first visit to Chester and will be assisted by the in-form Frankie Dettori. Runaway Ripon scorer Fattsota and Lincoln winner Gabrial complete the line-up.