Deira Mile primed for Great Voltigeur test at York
Deira Mile, who last made headlines with a strong fourth-place finish in the Derby behind winner City Of Troy, is on course to run in the prestigious Sky Bet Great Voltigeur Stakes at York Racecourse on August 21.
The son of sire sensation Camelot is being prepared for a tilt at the traditional St Leger trial race, with trainer Owen Burrows confident the step up in distance will suit his talented colt. However, the only potential stumbling block would be if the ground conditions at York are deemed too fast for Deira Mile’s liking.
“He’s all good, we’re very pleased with him and the plan is to give him a start in the Voltigeur,” said Burrows. “The only way he wouldn’t run was if the ground was very fast and then he might have a racecourse gallop somewhere instead.”
Burrows believes the extended St Leger trip of 1 mile and 6 furlongs is ideal for Deira Mile, and the seasoned handler is keen to avoid compromising the colt’s chances in the final classic of the season at Doncaster in September.
“All along, we’ve felt the Leger is his race and I wouldn’t want to risk jarring him up before that, so we’ll play it by ear but we’re working towards running him there,” Burrows explained. “I can’t imagine York letting it get too quick, but who knows with our weather. I’ve got one or two going there who the ground won’t make much difference to, but good ground would be perfect for him. Time will tell.”
Deira Mile’s participation in the Great Voltigeur will be a key indicator of his potential to deliver a big performance in the St Leger, one of the most prestigious races on the British horseracing calendar. Fans and pundits alike will be closely monitoring the colt’s display at York as he bids to cement his status as a leading classic contender.
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