Tullius to be tried in blinkers in Diomed Stakes

Connections are hoping the application of blinkers will work the oracle for Tullius in the Investec Diomed Stakes at Epsom.

The eight-year-old has worked well in headgear at Andrew Balding's stables and the feeling is he could outrun his age should he transfer that form to the track.

Tullius was fourth to Arod in the Diomed last year before going to land the Group Two Sky Bet York Stakes on the Knavesmire.

"Interestingly, he's been working in blinkers at home and his work has really perked up," said Sam Hoskins, racing manager to owners Kennet Valley Thoroughbreds.

"While he's eight, there might be one last swansong in him.

"Hopefully with it being the first day of the Derby meeting, there's a chance it will be good ground.

"He ran fourth in the Diomed last year but his lead up into the race wasn't great. He's probably not the same force of a couple of years ago, but he's still a very good horse and should run well."

Kennet Valley's star performer so far this year has been Magical Memory and all roads lead to the Golden Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot for the Charlie Hills-trained grey following his victory in the Duke of York Stakes earlier this month.

"He's really well. It's all systems go for the Diamond Jubilee and we watched The Tin Man with interest at Windsor. He's a horse with a similar profile," said Hoskins.

"We're really looking forward to it. He's a gelding but he won't be over-raced. We want him to last and want him to become a Sole Power of the future.

"Touch wood, all is on course. Hopefully, he's got a big chance."