Back
4 Apr 2017

Blue Point set for Haydock return

Blue Point

Leading Commonwealth Cup hope Blue Point is set to make his reappearance in next month’s Sandy Lane Stakes at Haydock.

Quiet Reflection used the Group 2 race over 6f as a stepping stone towards QIPCO British Champions Series glory at Royal Ascot and Charlie Appleby is hoping lightning can strike twice.

“We will work back from the Commonwealth Cup and look towards the Sandy Lane at Haydock as a starting point,” the trainer said

“He was placed in both the Middle Park and Dewhurst. We tested the waters over seven in the Dewhurst and while he didn’t disgrace himself, he clearly showed he was better over six.

“He has thickened out well and has strengthened up. He looks like a sprinter. He has a big backside and is thick through the shoulders.”

Blue Point spent the winter in Dubai but Wuheida, the stable’s leading QIPCO 1000 Guineas and Investec Oaks contender, stayed at home.

“She has done all the right things during the winter,” Appleby said. “The plan with her is hopefully to head straight to the Guineas.

“She went and had a look around at Huntingdon the other day and did everything we asked of her. She has come out of that very well. We might take a look at taking her up to Newmarket for the Craven meeting to give her a spin on the track.

“We’ve always had the Oaks earmarked as we feel she will excel at that trip.”

Boynton is “tip-toeing” towards the QIPCO 2000 Guineas at Newmarket on May 6 but, if he is not ready in time, could instead head for the St James’s Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot.

Salsabeel, another 2000 Guineas possible, may return in the Craven Stakes.

Meanwhile, Hawkbill’s programme will be determined by the going. Appleby believes last year’s Coral-Eclipse winner requires some juice in the ground to be seen at his best.

“He will be entered in all those Group Ones over a mile and a quarter and a mile and a half and go where the ground is best,” Appleby said.

Picture: Racingfotos.com