The Solario Stakes: Insights and Commentary
Starlore Aims to Add His Name to the Illustrious Roll of Honour
The Virgin Bet Solario Stakes at Sandown on Saturday presents an opportunity for Starlore to cement his place among a prestigious list of winners. In recent years, this Group Three contest has been a breeding ground for champions, with previous victors including Kingman in 2013, Masar in 2017, and Too Darn Hot in 2018 – all accomplished horses who have made their mark.
Sired by Kingman himself, Starlore carries the Juddmonte silks under the guidance of trainer Sir Michael Stoute. Following a successful debut over the same course and distance, where he won by just a nose, Starlore is expected to deliver another strong performance as he steps up in class.
The form from his maiden victory looks promising. The third-placed Arabian Crown has since secured a Listed win while Devil’s Point finished fifth but later triumphed at Ffos Las. Racing manager Barry Mahon expressed optimism about Starlore’s progress: “He’s had ample time since his first race and this will be another stepping stone. Hopefully, he’ll have improved; it will be necessary for him to do so.”
In July, David Menuisier’s Devil’s Point was only one-and-a-half lengths behind Starlore during their last encounter and is set to challenge him once again after an impressive display at Wales three-and-a-half weeks ago. However, Menuisier hopes for some rain in Esher as it would favor Devil’s Point: “The horse ran well on his first start at Sandown despite being slightly inexperienced. The subsequent success of Arabian Crown in a Listed race adds credibility to the form. We’re hoping for slower ground conditions, so we’ll see how he performs.”
Trainer Ralph Beckett’s Mortlake arrives in excellent form after an impressive victory at Leicester, while Charlie Appleby’s Aablan justified his odds during his debut at Newmarket. Speaking on behalf of Godolphin, Appleby said: “Aablan has progressed well since his first win and we believe the seven-furlong stretch at Sandown will suit him. This stepping stone into higher-level competition sets the stage for a promising autumn campaign.”
David O’Meara raises Cerulean Bay’s aspirations following two modest wins north of the border – one maiden win at Hamilton and another novice success at Ayr.
The final contender is Inishfallen from Brian Meehan’s yard, who returns to action just over a week after finishing third in a valuable nursery race at York.