O'Brien prepares Ascot attack

Racing: George Washington could be joined by stablemates Excellent Art and Duke Of Marmalade in Saturday's Queen Elizabeth II…

Racing:George Washington could be joined by stablemates Excellent Art and Duke Of Marmalade in Saturday's Queen Elizabeth II Stakes as Aidan O'Brien mulls a three-pronged attack.

The first-named colt has not tasted success since landing last season's renewal of Ascot's Group One showpiece, but has been placed in his last two races at the highest level.

Duke Of Marmalade was last seen finishing second in the Irish Champion Stakes, while Excellent Art would be returning to the scene of his St James's Palace Stakes success if getting the go-ahead.

"George Washington, Excellent Art and Duke Of Marmalade are all being trained with the Ascot race in mind and it's quite possible, but not yet definite, that all three will run," O'Brien explained.

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"There are plenty of options for George, including races in the US, but at this stage we're looking at the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes for him," he told the Racing Post.

"Astronomer Royal is also in the race, but he could go to the US for the Keeneland Mile instead."

George Washington had to settle for third behind Darjina and Ramonti in the Prix du Moulin earlier this month.

He is likely to lock horns with those two once more at the weekend, after connections of the former announced their intention to supplement the star filly.

Trainer Alain de Royer-Dupre confirmed: "It is our intention to supplement Darjina into the Queen Elizabeth on Monday.

"We have had a look at the weather forecast next week and it doesn't forecast much rain. The filly is in great shape since her Moulin win."