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Lucida on target for big run

3 minute read

Kevin Manning does not think the fact Lucida heads straight to the Qipco 1000 Guineas at Newmarket without a trial will work against her.

Lucida heading to the barrier before the running of the Meriton Serv. Apartments Plate
Lucida heading to the barrier before the running of the Meriton Serv. Apartments Plate Picture: Racing and Sports

Trained by Jim Bolger, Lucida is owned by Godolphin and represents Manning's best chance of winning the Classic since Finsceal Beo took the prize back in 2007.

A narrow second in the Moyglare, she gained compensation when winning the Rockfel Stakes at Newmarket, beating her chief market rival Fadhayyil, although she subsequently appeared a shadow of herself on soft ground when fifth after being s ent off a short price in the Fillies' MIle.

Manning said: " The Fillies' Mile was her only disappointing run last season. You'd have to put it down to the ground - we did anyway.

"She was very impressive in beating Fadhayyil before that in the Rockfel. That day she was going away at the line it looked like a mile would suit her, and she had no problems with the track. On that performance I wouldn't be worried about her over a mile.

"She's been working very well at home, we've been very pleased with her, and didn't feel that she needed to run in a trial. Jim tends to send one straight there if he thinks they are good enough."

Long time a nte-post favourite Found was the most notable absentee from a field of 13 for Sunday's Classic.

Aidan O'Brien had informed the public she had suffered a setback in the lead-up to the race, but he was still hoping she would make the line-up.

However, a tweet from Coolmore on Friday morning confirmed the bad news for those who had been backing the Prix Marcel Boussac winner through the winter.

It read: "One declaration from Ballydoyle for Sunday's 1000 Guineas @NewmarketRaces Qualify (Joseph O'Brien)."


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