Johnston looking to Align spot in Leger line-up
Lonsdale Cup run key to Classic aspirations at Doncaster.
Align The Stars could set up a St Leger bid when he seeks to continue his hot run of form in the Weatherbys Hamilton Lonsdale Cup Stakes at York on Friday. Charlie Johnston’s three-year-old has finished no worse than third in six outings this term, winning his last three starts in handicap company. Having opted to step up in both distance and grade for the Group Two Lonsdale rather than contest Saturday’s Melrose Handicap, Johnston is hoping his upwardly-mobile colt can take advantage of some exposed rivals while his stock is still rising.Align The Stars digs deep to win the Coral Summer Handicap ✨#ITVRacing | @Goodwood_Races pic.twitter.com/8slNhRsuOc
— ITV Racing (@itvracing) August 3, 2024
“It wasn’t an easy decision to make and one we agonised over for a while, but we landed on the side of the Lonsdale Cup and now he is up to a rating of 102 he has earned his crack at Group level,” explained Johnston. “We’re going to have to take on some hardened, older stayers but between trying the trip and being out of form, most of them have some sort of question to answer, and certainly no one else is coming into the race on the back of three straight wins and on such an upwards curve and a progressive profile. “We thought maybe now was the time to try to catch these horses when they are not at their best, but at the same time we obviously have plenty of respect for them – they are rated in the low 110s and we have 10lb to find with them. “However, we are young, progressive and hopefully heading the right way.” Align The Stars’ performance on the Knavesmire could prove key in determining if the son of Sea The Stars heads to Doncaster for the final Classic of the season.
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