Growing up, the legend of the Grundy/Bustino King George gave this race a magical aura and exemplified its status as the mid-summer event in the UK that established the pecking order of the Classic generation against their elders.
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There has been recent comment that the race has somehow lost its lustre (no pun intended with the loss of deBeers as sponsor in 2006), and that without a top class three year old in the field, the race loses out to calendar competitors later in the season – most obviously, the Arc.
Since 1996, only Galileo (2001) and Alamshar (2003) have been successful for the younger brigade. Indeed in 2006, 2007 and 2008, no three year olds took part and the last runner from the Classic generation to reach the frame was the 2003 winner, Alamshar!
However, as things stand, the 2010 renewal, with a prize-fund of £1m, looks likely to feature the winners of the Epsom Derby, Workforce and Irish Derby, Cape Blanco.
In addition, the race could attract the leading older middle distance colt in the UK, Harbinger, the two best older fillies, Sariska and Dar Re Mi, plus the possibility of the top French filly, Daryakana and Ascot Gold Cup runner-up Age Of Aquarius.
Sir Michael Stoute saddled the first three home in this race in 2009 and with the front two in the betting this time around, the master of Freemason Lodge looks to be in a strong position to add to his role of honour that dates back to Shergar’s imperious success in 1981.
Most of the attention will be on the Derby winner, Workforce. Arguably the most impressive Derby winner seen at Epsom since the mighty Shergar, Workforce could establish himself as the leading colt of his generation by following up at Ascot.
The progress Workforce has made in his limited career to date has been astounding. Looking at the Racing Post Ratings, he was awarded a mark of 96 following his maiden win at Goodwood last September, 114 for his Dante second and 129 for his win at Epsom. On this basis, the imposing son of King’s Best could yet end the season on a mark not far from that achieved by Sea The Stars.
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