SILVESTRE DE SOUSA has been jocked off Classic winner Elmalka ahead of a big Group 1 target at Royal Ascot.
James Doyle, who is trainer Roger Varian’s No1, has been given the nod for the Coronation Stakes – despite De Sousa’s heroics in the saddle in the 1,000 Guineas at Newmarket.
Silvestre De Sousa rode Elmalka (yellow silks) to victory in the 1,000 Guineas[/caption]
The Brazilian gave the filly an inspired ride to win the big’un at 28-1, providing him with a first ever Classic success, but he will have to step aside at the Royal meeting, which starts on June 18.
The ‘Doyler’ was supposed to be aboard Elmalka in the Guineas but had to jet across the Channel to ride in France for his bosses at Wathnan Racing instead.
De Sousa, who is still in the process of rebuilding his career after a 10-month betting breach ban, grabbed the opportunity with both hands.
But the three-time champion jockey’s memorable victory was not enough to secure him the ride long-term
THE SUN RACING MEMBERS ENCLOSURE
THE best bet for savvy punters.
Sign up now for just £1* to be part of racing’s best winner’s enclosure and get…
- Two free racing tickets, four times a year
- Templegate’s daily tips before anyone else
- Tomorrow’s copy of The Favourite at 9pm today
- Exclusive insights from Andrew Balding and Hayley Turner
- VIP competitions from Racing Breaks each month
- New customer offer with Coral
Become a member today for just £1*
*For the first month then £3 per month thereafter.
18+ Ts and Cs apply. First month membership £1, then £3 per month unless you cancel at least 7 days before your next billing date. For more information contact [email protected]
Varian said: “James was meant to ride her originally but had to go to France, so he will be back on her.
“I’ve been really pleased with her since the Guineas. The Coronation is often one of the best races of the week and it is shaping up to be a very good race again.
“Ascot is a greater test of speed than Newmarket but she is has plenty of pace and is versatile as regards how she is ridden, she doesn’t have to be held up.
“I hope she is going to run a big race, though we have to remember she has only had three runs in her life, so she will still improve with time and racing.”
Elmalka, who is 4-1 for the Coronation Stakes with Coral, adds to a top book of rides for Doyle, who has a host of Wathnan Racing-owned stars to ride and will be well-fancied to finish as top jock at Ascot.
But De Sousa will get his Group 1 shot on the same yard’s Charyn, who lines up in the Queen Anne Stakes.
The horse has taken a big step forward this season and is one of the top milers in this country.
And he was the only horse who was able to make up any sort of ground on runaway winner Audience when second in the Group 1 Lockinge Stakes at Newbury last time.
Varian said: “Charyn has had a tremendous season so far. I was thrilled with his second in the Lockinge and he is on course for Ascot.
“You have to tip your hat to the winner, it was an amazing performance on the day, but out horse has proven he is a legitimate contender and he was probably a little bit unlucky not to win on the day.”
There will be a change to the familiar schedule at Royal Ascot a week on Tuesday, with track chiefs having tinkered with several race times to avoid clashes with Euro 2024.
FREE BETS – GET THE BEST SIGN UP DEALS AND RACING OFFERS
Commercial content notice: Taking one of the offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. You should be aware brands pay fees to appear in the highest placements on the page. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org.
Remember to gamble responsibly
A responsible gambler is someone who:
- Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
- Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
- Never chases their losses
- Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed
- Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
- Gamble Aware – www.gambleaware.org
Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.
. Source
