Stable News
15.11.06 - Court Masterpiece all set for $1.85m Japanese race
TRAINER ED Dunlop is happy with Court Masterpiece ahead of the six-year-old’s tilt at the Mile Championship in Kyoto this Sunday.
The son of Polish Precedent is nearing the end of his superb career and this weekend marks the first of two intended outings in Japan in the next month.
Court Masterpiece
As well as having a crack at the $1.85 million Grade 1 on November 19, he has also been invited to have a shot at the Hong Kong Mile on December 10, while the Hanshin Cup on December 17 is another option.
But before connections assess his likely next move, Court Masterpiece is poised to face 17 rivals on a round course in Kyoto where the ground is set to ride on the quick side.
Dunlop is hopeful that his charge – a dual Group 1 winner - can put his best foot forward in the country where he is to take up a secondary career – as a stallion – in 2007.
He said: “Court Masterpiece cantered this morning and he will have another blow-out tomorrow.
“While the ground is likely to be on the fast side, there is a good cushion to it.
“Everything has gone well since he left the yard. Let’s hope his preparations continue to go well.
“Sunday’s race is a big ask. But he is going to be a stallion in Japan and we have fingers crossed that he can show himself off to the breeders out there.
“He is a great advertisement for an improving horse and I’m sure he will be a fine addition to Darley’s team of stallions in Japan. I look forward one day to seeing his progeny.”
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