Champion Stakes 2022 Ante-Post Update

I talked of Adayar a few days ago, he was unbackable in the 1m2f Hilton Garden Inn Doncaster Conditions Stakes last week at long odds-on, and the colt duly obliged in a canter. What I did say at the time, and did, was back him for the Champion Stakes ante-post at 14-1 each-way. 

Held up at the rear of the three runners, Adayar cruised into the lead entering the final quarter-mile and readily went clear under William Buick to score by nearly four lengths in the 10-furlong contest. Trainer Charlie Appleby said: “You are always a bit apprehensive when a horse has had such an extended time off, while this was Adayar’s first run from three to four. Full credit to the team at home, who have done a great job. We had seen what we wanted to see at home and today was a perfect gallop. Whether we decide to go for the Arc or the Champion Stakes will be discussed over the coming weeks, but I didn’t want him to have a hard race here because then you have the bounce factor to consider. It’s normally testing ground in the autumn and going into those big races with fresh legs is always an advantage. We couldn’t have been any happier with him going into today but, more importantly, he has enjoyed himself round there, which is fantastic.”

I really hope they go for Ascot naturally as the price I have is now long gone, generally about 6's now. I honestly think it is his best option, I know Baaeed is odds-on but there is still a little doubt about where he will go, Ascot or Longchamp, and the Arc looks pretty strong even if Baaeed doesn't travel. If Adayar went to France he would have to give weight to Alpinista as a mare, and she has plenty of form on soft on the continent, plus Luxembourg and Vadeni as a three-year-olds as well. 

Come on Charlie do us a favour and send him to Ascot; you can have a go at the Arc next year off the back of a perfect preparation all being well.