Prendergast happy with Haatef
Thursday 26th April, 2007
TRAINER Kevin Prendergast has provided an upbeat bulletin on his Stan James 2000 Guineas challenger Haatef.
The son of Danzig colt is somewhat inexperienced compared to some of his rivals for the colt's classic to be staged at Newmarket's NatWest Rowley Mile course on May 5.
But he showed plenty of ability on his second start when finishing fourth to Teofilo in the Darley Dewhurst Stakes last October.
Haatef, a 12-1 chance with the sponsors for 2000 Guineas glory, has not been seen out since then. But Prendergast today gave a positive report about the colt ahead of his reappearance.
Speaking to www.newmarketracecourses.co.uk, the Co.Kildare handler today said: "The horse is in great form. He has wintered very well and I think he will be there or thereabouts.
"He is in very good shape and we're looking for a big run. I hope it stays dry as we want fast ground for him.
"He will do his final bit of work next Tuesday and we hope to ship him to Newmarket on the Friday before the race."
Prendergast is also set to be represented in the Stan James 1000 Guineas by the tough and consistent filly Miss Beatrix.
The daughter of Danehill Dancer is already a Group 1 winner, having landed the Moyglare Stud Stakes last season.
She has been a little bit slower in shrugging off the winter but Prendergast feels she is starting to get to where she needs to be for a 1000 Guineas tilt.
He said: "She didn't winter as well as Haatef did but the last 10 days she has been coming to hand much better. Hopefully, she will put up a good show."
The 14-1 shot for the fillies' classic, which wil be run on May 6, will also complete her fast-work preparations next Tuesday.