Ballydoyle’s strength for next year’s Classics appeared to weaken today with a disappointing run from 2000 Guineas favourite Mastercraftsman.

Prior to the running of the Group One Jean-Luc Lagardere Hills made the son of Danehill Dancer 5-1 favourite for the one-mile Classic, but transposed him with stable-mate Rip Van Winkle at the head of the betting after his poor odds-on performance.

Hills now make Rip Van Winkle 4-1 from 5-1, whilst easing out Mastercraftsman to 10-1 from 5-1. Naaqoos – trained by French legend Freddie Head has been installed as a 14-1 for the Newmarket race next May.

In the fillies’ edition – the Prix Marcel Boussac, Proportional scored for the home nation with a stunning performance for owner Khalid Abdulla. Connections suggest that she will be entered into the 1000 Guineas, and Hills make her the 7-1 second-favourite for the race behind long-time jolly and 7-4 chance Rainbow View.

Crickette Head enjoyed a fruitful spell during the 80’s and 90’s, and scored three victories in the 1000 Guineas with Ma Biche (’82), Ravinella (’88), and Hatoof (’92). 

Kate Miller, spokeswoman for Hills, said: ‘’The Marcel Boussac and Jean-Luc Lagadere are often extremely informative races for next year’s Classics, and Proportional looks to be a serious contender for next year’s Fillies’ Classics.  Her breeding suggests she could campaign at a mile and beyond, and she will be a fascinating filly to follow. The colts edition was tainted somewhat by a poor run from Mastercraftsman, and the markets have subsequently been shaken up with Rip Van Winkle appointed our new jolly.’’