Gary Moore is poised to pursue an Easter delight at Lingfield as Cephalus strives to extend his triumphant streak of three races in the BetMGM All Weather Vase Mile Handicap.
The Lower Beeding trainer relishes success at his nearby tracks and aims to make a significant impact at one of Lingfield's prominent events with the in-form five-year-old. Cephalus, who seeks to secure the £33,501 winner's purse in the eight-furlong competition, has been outstanding on the all-weather circuit this winter. He has clinched victory in four of his last six races and narrowly missed out on the other two occasions, finishing second by a neck and a short head respectively.
Despite shouldering a 5lb penalty for his recent track-and-trip victory just seven days ago, Moore remains hopeful that Cephalus can sustain his impressive form, despite the challenge of an awkward draw.
"He's in excellent form and spirits," Moore remarked, "but the only downside is his draw – he's positioned out in the car park."
"He couldn't be in better shape, and we're anticipating another strong performance. It's disappointing that he didn't clinch victory in those other two races, but it would certainly be rewarding for the owners if he could secure another win."
Asgard's Captain is another contender aiming to maintain a winning streak as he prepares to compete in the BetUK All-Weather Vase Middle Distance Handicap.
Having secured three consecutive victories at Newcastle earlier this week, Asgard's Captain is being swiftly turned out in an attempt to deliver another significant triumph for trainer Dylan Cunha, who tasted success in the Brocklesby.
"He's in excellent form and has recovered admirably from his performance at Newcastle on Monday," commented the Newmarket-based South African handler.
"He heads there with every opportunity, although he'll need to step up once more – a considerable task as he faces tougher competition and carries an additional penalty," stated Cunha. "However, he's in fine form and has a favourable draw. I couldn't ask for much more; I'm fairly confident in his abilities."
Ian Williams' Aqwaam sets a high standard in the BetUK All-Weather Vase Marathon Handicap, having narrowly missed out in his recent outings. Additionally, there's a formidable Irish presence in the BetUK All-Weather Vase Sprint Handicap, where James Doyle will partner Johnny Murtagh's Daamberdiplomat before departing for Meydan to participate in Dubai World Cup night.
In addition to Murtagh's Daamberdiplomat, Adrian McGuinness will also introduce Apache Outlaw and Dream Today, as he seeks to secure a share of the lucrative prize fund.
Similar to Murtagh's contender, both McGuinness' horses have demonstrated excellent form on the synthetic surfaces at Dundalk. Apache Outlaw, in particular, is aiming for a hat-trick after a successful return from a 93-day hiatus just last week.
McGuinness expressed his optimism, stating, "We're hopeful that both of them can deliver strong performances. Dream Today has secured a favourable draw, which is advantageous around Lingfield."
"Apache has a slightly wide draw, but we have two talented claimers on our horses, and James Ryan aboard Apache Outlaw is an excellent rider," McGuinness commented. "I believe he had some reserve energy left in his win last week, so tomorrow's race will reveal more. He received a 5lb penalty for his victory and is competing off the same mark as in Ireland."
"I anticipate strong performances from both of them," McGuinness continued. "Last week, we were competing in the finals at Dundalk for nowhere near the prize money on offer here. We were contending for £9,000, and you'd only get that for finishing third. Hence, it's essential to target these races."
"I'm eagerly anticipating it, and we always aim to campaign our winter horses for some form of payoff if possible."