Thoughts for the british horses

12 December

THOUGHTS OF CHAIRMAN JAMES STAFFORD FOR THE BRITISH HORSES IN THE INTERNATIONAL RACES:

PRESVIS (Cup): Looked extremely well this morning and has been pleasing Luca Cumani (trainer) and Charlie Henson (assistant trainer) all week. Despite their feelings that the horse might not be at fever pitch for this race, I am becoming more and more convinced that Presvis can give his jockey Kieren Fallon a second win in the Cathay Pacific Hong Kong International races.

YOUMZAIN (Vase): Has a good draw and Mick Channon is very happy with the way he has travelled. The horse 'does all the talking', says Mick, as he has a great record on the international stage. He does have a habit of finding one to beat him whether it is a top race or a lesser one. For me the pace of the race is a worry for Youmzain. He needs a good gallop and historically the Vase can be falsely run but Channon, an international footballer of the highest calibre, would dearly love to put his name on the score sheet here.

SPANISH MOON (Vase): Has an excellent chance of adding a third International race victory for trainer Sir Michael Stoute. Ryan Moore knows the horse well and provided there is no problem at the stalls where he can be a bit tricky I am sure he will be in the shake up. Ryan will probably ride him quite handy and get him into a rhythm, ready to pounce in the straight.

BUCCELLATI (Vase): Comes here in great form and looks in better shape than last year but isn't quiet classy enough to win. Fifth or sixth is the best he can hope for.

CONFRONT (Mile): This is a step-up in class and not that well drawn but he looked on very good term with himself this morning [Saturday] and could easily run a best ever tomorrow.

TOTAL GALLERY (Sprint): Always a tough task for the Europeans in this race and this year's contest is the best ever. This is especially hard for a three-year-old but connections have been very happy with the Prix de l'Abbaye winner. He has a good draw and six furlongs around a bend hold no fears.

BORDERLESCOTT (Sprint): More of a five furlong sprinter and the best in that sphere at home but this race might be too tough for him.

WAR ARTIST (Sprint): Worked very nicely on Friday morning and trainer, James Eustace, is quietly confident his speedster will get into the money. I cannot see him closer than fifth or sixth.