Insights from Those Involved in the Stewards’ Cup

Charlie Hills Confident in Orazio’s Chances at the Coral Stewards’ Cup

In an ultra-competitive race like the Coral Stewards’ Cup, there are few concerns from trainer Charlie Hills regarding his sprinter, Orazio. Despite a sixth-place finish in the Wokingham at Royal Ascot, Orazio is favored by sponsors to win this thrilling six-furlong cavalry charge.

Jockey Jim Crowley will be riding Orazio for the first time, hoping to add another big-race victory to his recent success with Hukum and Al Husn. Both horses showcased their talent in prestigious races such as the King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes and Nassau Stakes respectively.

Crowley himself partnered Khaadem to victory in this very race back in 2019 under Hills’ guidance. With stall six draw and proven ability on easy ground, there is great confidence surrounding Orazio’s chances.

Hills stated: “Orazio will thrive on softer ground after struggling with firmer conditions at Ascot. His draw is favorable too, and despite being a short-priced favorite, I believe everything aligns perfectly for him.”

Tanmawwy Also Carries Hope for Trainer Charlie Hillls

Apart from fielding Orazio, trainer Charlie Hills also pins hope on Tanmawwy who has drawn stall eight out of a maximum of twenty-eight runners. The five-year-old has won five out of twelve starts and aims to build on his recent success in a Windsor handicap race while carrying a 6lb penalty.

Discussing Tanmawwy’s chances, Hills added: “Tanmawwy performed exceptionally well at Windsor and should handle the ground. I believe he is a strong contender who shouldn’t be overlooked.”

Apollo One Owner Peter Charalambous Optimistic

Peter Charalambous, owner and breeder of Apollo One, expressed satisfaction with the draw that places them near the stands rail in stall 27. Having achieved four wins and eight placements in twenty-three starts, Apollo One has come close to claiming several big handicap prizes this season.

The five-year-old finished as runner-up in both the JRA Tokyo Trophy at Epsom and Wokingham at Royal Ascot. However, concerns remain regarding the ground conditions for this talented horse.

Charalambous stated: “I’m content with our draw position but hope for some rain on Saturday to soften up the sticky ground. Despite these uncertainties, I wouldn’t discourage anyone from betting nor would I insist they do so!”

Ruth Carr Aims High with Badri

In terms of uncertainty surrounding contenders, trainer Ruth Carr prepares her horse Badri drawn in stall eighteen for an attempt at victory. Badri narrowly defeated Apollo One by a neck at Epsom before finishing second over five furlongs at Ascot last month.

Carr admits it is difficult to predict outcomes given the competitive nature of such races but remains hopeful based on Badri’s consistent performances so far. Although softer ground conditions are preferred, Carr believes that six furlongs suits their entry well enough to potentially secure valuable prize money.

Mr Wagyu – A Formidable Competitor

Trainer John Quinn brings Mr Wagyu to the Coral Stewards’ Cup with a 5lb reduction in his previous winning mark. Despite not having won since last July’s handicap at the Curragh, Mr Wagyu has shown promise and finished within three lengths of the winner in the recent Wokingham.

The stall fourteen draw should work well for Jason Hart’s mount, particularly if conditions become softer. Trainer John Quinn remains optimistic about their chances but acknowledges that this is a challenging race where even small details can make all the difference.