Daylami has Ascot target

Godolphin yesterday unveiled a more focused bid for the King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes

Godolphin yesterday unveiled a more focused bid for the King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes. A day after landing an unprecedented clean sweep of the places in the Coral-Eclipse Stakes at Sandown, Sheikh Mohammed's operation revealed it will be just two-handed in the next big British Group One middle-distance prize.

Daylami, who led home the Eclipse procession, and last year's winner Swain are the two set to head for Ascot a fortnight next Saturday from 10 current Godolphin entries in the mile-and-a-half race.

Daylami collected the Eclipse by half a length from Faithful Son, with Central Park holding off the rest for third place.

"It was absolutely tremendous, all credit to the horses," reflected Godolphin racing manager Simon Crisford. "We are lucky to have a great team of older horses this year.

READ MORE

"All of them have come out of the race fine. Daylami will be aimed next at the King George and we will also have Swain in the race. The other two will have a bit of a rest.

"Daylami has never been over a mile and a half before so it is unknown territory but he gives every indication that he will get the trip and it could suit him well."

Lynda Ramsden has shocked the British racing world. Four months after refuting accusations of "cheating" and landing a conclusive victory in a High Court libel case, she announced her intention to give up training.

She will hand in her licence at the end of the Flat season and her stable at Sandhutton, near Thirsk, is to be sold.