Hardwicke Stakes Winner Isle Of Jura to Miss Melbourne Cup, Targets King George Instead
Ascot, UK – In a surprising turn of events, Australian racing fans are unlikely to see the younger brother of Cascadian, Isle Of Jura, compete in the Melbourne Cup this spring. The four-year-old gelding’s brilliant win in the Group 2 Hardwicke Stakes at Royal Ascot has prompted his trainer, George Scott, to keep him in the Northern Hemisphere for a tilt at the prestigious Group 1 King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes on July 28.
Isle Of Jura, a product of the sire New Approach and the mare Falls Of Lora, has been in scintillating form of late, recording his fifth consecutive victory in the 2414-metre Hardwicke Stakes. The impressive 3-3/4 length win over Goliard has convinced Scott to forego a Melbourne Cup campaign and instead focus on the King George, a race the trainer has described as the “immediate aim” for the Sheikh Nasser-owned galloper.
“Just over a year ago he was well beaten in a Thirsk maiden,” Scott said of Isle Of Jura’s remarkable journey. “To do this for Sheikh Nasser (Victorious Racing), such a big supporter of mine, is very special. We are just blessed to have him. He’s repaid us time and time again and the journey from hereon in is going to be very, very special.”
Despite the news, the Melbourne Cup dream remains alive for the Hardwicke Stakes third-placegetter Middle Earth, who is part-owned by leading Australian trainer Ciaron Maher. Ridden by Oisin Murphy, the son of Roaring Lion is expected to contest a Group 2 event in Europe before joining the Maher stable in Victoria later this year.
Prior to the Hardwicke Stakes, Isle Of Jura was considered a $21 chance in the Melbourne Cup betting with Australian bookmakers. However, his scintillating performance has prompted his connections to prioritize the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes, a decision that will disappoint some Australian punters but excite international racing enthusiasts eager to witness the gelding’s next chapter.
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