Adagio heads 24 declared runners for Stan James 2000 Guineas
Thursday 3rd May, 2007
Adagio pictured above after his Craven Stakes win on Thursday 19th April, picture by Steve Cargill
ADAGIO was this morning installed as the sponsor’s 3-1 favourite for the Stan James 2000 Guineas after Teofilo came out of the race at the 48-hour declaration stage.
Earlier on Adagio had done his last little piece of fast work before the colt’s classic when blowing out on the Al Bahathri in company with a lead horse. Jockey Kerrin McEvoy was on board as he was when the son of Grand Lodge landed the banshahousestables.com Craven Stakes two weeks ago.
Adagio’s trainer Sir Michael Stoute also took the opportunity to give his other 2000 Guineas contender Al Shemali a pipe-opener on the same polytrack gallop.
Adagio and Al Shemali are set to take their respective places in a cracking field of 24 for what looks sure to be a thrilling renewal of the race staged over the NatWest Rowley Mile.
The market indicates that French raider US Ranger and Haatef pose the greatest threat to Adagio’s chances. But there are at least half-a-dozen others who appear capable of landing the £350,000 Group 1 contest.
Stan James 2000 Guineas - sponsor’s betting: 3 Adagio, 4 US Ranger, 6 Haatef, 13-2 Strategic Prince, 7 Major Cadeaux, 10 Diamond Tycoon, 12 Dutch Art, 18 Cockney Rebel, 20 Duke Of Marmalade, 33 Eagle Mountain & Truly Royal 40 bar
By Tony Rushmer