Tweak to Craven Stakes conditions welcomed by Peter Chapple-Hyam
Monday 15 February 2016 17:34, UK
Peter Chapple-Hyam has welcomed the news that a 3lb penalty will no longer be imposed on Group One and Group Two winners in the Craven Stakes.
The Group Three event over the Rowley Mile at Newmarket, run this year on April 14, remains a leading trial for the QIPCO 2000 Guineas at the same track a couple of weeks later.
Chapple-Hyam has a leading candidate for the colts' Classic on April 30 in Marcel, who under the old race conditions would have been penalised for his victory in the Group One Racing Post Trophy at Doncaster last October.
"I am delighted that penalties will no longer be applied in the Craven Stakes," said the Newmarket trainer.
"I think it's a very good move. The Craven is run over the same course and distance as the Guineas so this makes it the perfect Guineas trial."
Chapple-Hyam reports Marcel to have wintered well and the Craven would be discussed should the son of Lawman need a prep-run.
"Marcel is only cantering at the moment but I'm very happy with him in every way - he has done fantastically over the winter," he said.
"It is definitely the plan to aim him for a Guineas, but if he has a trial beforehand is a different matter. If we do decide to give him a prep race, the Craven will come under strong consideration."
Marcel can be backed at 25/1 with Sky Bet for the QIPCO 2000 Guineas.
