##Goodwood Festival Preview: Top Contenders Eyed by Connections
As the prestigious Qatar Goodwood Festival approaches this weekend, connections of some of the leading contenders have shared their insights on the major races.
In the Coral Glorious Stakes, Al Aasy will look to turn the tables on his Newbury conqueror Phantom Flight. Trainer William Haggas, who saddled last year’s winner Hamish, now relies on the evergreen seven-year-old Al Aasy. Shadwell’s Angus Gold believes Al Aasy “will come on” for his recent reappearance and is hopeful the longer 1m4f trip will suit.
“This looks a really nice spot for him.”
- George Scott, trainer of Phantom Flight
Phantom Flight, trained by George Scott, is yet to win over 12 furlongs but the handler is confident the trip will suit. Roger Varian’s Aimeric and the Gosden’s Lion’s Pride also feature in a competitive renewal.
The Qatar Lillie Langtry Stakes sees Caius Chorister return to a more suitable 1m6f trip after her Gold Cup exploits. Trainer David Menuisier is “hopeful of a strong showing,” while the Gosden’s Free Wind looks to build on her Middleton Stakes second. French challenger Melo Melo, from the in-form yard of Francis-Henri Graffard, also takes her chance.
In the Coral Stewards’ Cup, Wathnan Racing’s Dark Trooper will seek compensation after his narrow defeat in the Wokingham at Royal Ascot. Alban de Mieulle’s speedster is set to be a warm order, with owner’s advisor Richard Brown bullish about his chances. Archie Watson’s Albasheer, a course and distance winner, and Andrew Balding’s Purosangue, dropping in class, also feature in the competitive handicap.
The Qatar Goodwood Festival promises to deliver another thrilling weekend of elite Flat racing action. Connections of the leading contenders are hopeful of securing valuable prizes on the Sussex Downs.
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