Oisin Murphy celebrates as Dashing Willoughby wins at Royal Ascot
Oisin Murphy celebrates as Dashing Willoughby wins at Royal Ascot

Goodwood Cup option for Dashing Willoughby at Qatar Goodwood Festival


Andrew Balding is considering a tilt at the Qatar Goodwood Cup with his Royal Ascot hero Dashing Willoughby.

The Nathaniel colt relished the step up to a mile and three-quarters when landing last month's Queen Vase - and was far from disgraced when dropped to a mile and a half for the Princess of Wales's Stakes at Newmarket, finishing a close-up fourth behind Communique.

Balding feels a sterner test of stamina will suit Dashing Willoughby, however - and he could move up to two miles for the first time at Glorious Goodwood, where he would clash with the star stayer Stradivarius, among others.

"The Goodwood Cup is a possibility, and he will be confirmed for it on Monday," said Balding.

"He ran a smashing race at Newmarket - he just wants a bit further. "

Another Balding inmate who could be bound for the Sussex Downs is Shine So Bright, who has not been seen in competitive action since finishing a promising sixth in the 2000 Guineas at Newmarket in early May.

"Shine So Bright is still in the Lennox Stakes, although it might come a bit too soon for him," the trainer added.