Horse Racing News Update: Vandeek Primed for July Cup Tilt After Ascot Absence

Vandeek, the unbeaten juvenile sensation, remains firmly on course for a tilt at the prestigious My Pension Expert July Cup at Newmarket next week, despite being forced to miss the recent Royal Ascot meeting.

The son of Havana Grey, who enjoyed a superb campaign last year that included victories in the Richmond Stakes at Goodwood and the prestigious Prix Morny in France, was unable to take his place in the Commonwealth Cup at Ascot due to an abnormal blood count.

Setback at Ascot

Trained by the formidable father-son duo of Simon and Ed Crisford, Vandeek was beaten on his three-year-old debut at Haydock but was expected to bounce back at the Royal meeting. However, a minor setback scuppered those plans, much to the disappointment of his connections.

“The Crisfords weren’t happy with how he was, and his blood wasn’t right, so he didn’t go there,” said Chris Wall, the racing manager for owners KHK Racing.

Primed for July Cup

Despite the Ascot absence, Wall is pleased with Vandeek’s progress in the lead-up to the July Cup, a race that concludes the Qipco British Champions Series sprint division.

“He’s been training nicely,” Wall revealed. “He looks to be in good health, he looks very fresh and well and full of himself. The plan very much is to run him in the July Cup next week.”

A victory in the July Cup would further cement Vandeek’s reputation as one of the most exciting young talents in the sport, and racing enthusiasts will eagerly await his return to the racecourse as he looks to add another prestigious title to his burgeoning resume.

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