Lonsdale Cup the plan for big Melbourne Cup hope

Magic Circle is likely to warm up for a tilt at Melbourne Cup glory in the Lonsdale Cup at York on August 24.

Formerly trained by Ralph Beckett, the Dr Marwan Koukash-owned six-year-old made a spectacular debut for Ian Williams when running out a six-length winner of last month’s Chester Cup.

He took a step up to Group Three level in his stride when landing the Henry II Stakes at Sandown less than a fortnight later.

Magic Circle has since enjoyed a short break with a view to ensuring he is still at his peak for the Flemington showpiece on the first Tuesday in November.

Williams said: “He had a bit of a break after Sandown. We freshened him up and he seems in good form.

“We’ll take a look at the Lonsdale Cup at York and obviously we’re preparing everything for Melbourne.

“York will hopefully be his next and only race before the Melbourne Cup. That’s the plan.”

The Alvechurch-based trainer was pleased to see Magic Circle’s form boosted at Royal Ascot last week, with Sandown runner-up Red Verdon finishing second in the Hardwicke Stakes.

He added: “The form has worked out exceptionally well and they’ve actually put him up a pound from 117 to 118.”