Uncertainty looms over Little Big Bear’s participation in the upcoming July Cup

Little Big Bear’s Participation in Pertemps Network July Cup Remains Uncertain

In a surprising turn of events, Aidan O’Brien has rated Little Big Bear’s participation in Saturday’s Pertemps Network July Cup as only “50-50”. The colt was the runner-up to Shaquille in the Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot and a rematch between the two was highly anticipated for this weekend. However, it seems that fate may have other plans.

A stone bruise suffered by Little Big Bear could potentially derail his chances of competing in the prestigious race. O’Brien explained, “Little Big Bear is not definite to run as he had a foot bruise last week and he missed six days without doing any cantering. We might do something in the morning with him to see how he is and whether we decide to run him or not.”

The uncertainty surrounding Little Big Bear adds an air of intrigue to this already exciting event. Should he not be able to participate, Meditate, winner at the Breeders’ Cup, may have her retirement delayed despite running in the Prix Jean Prat on Sunday.

O’Brien revealed their dilemma stating,”We have to decide whether we are going to retire Meditate or not. It is very possible that she could retire… We didn’t get a clear picture with her [in France] due to messy pace.” He further mentioned that if Little Big Bear doesn’t run, they would consider giving Meditate another chance over six furlongs before retiring her.

As expected, Royal Ascot winner Khaadem has been supplemented for the race. Trained by Charlie Hills, the Newmarket race was always deemed as the “obvious target” for this surprise Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes scorer.

The competition will also see Julie Camacho’s Shaquille competing against older horses after his remarkable display in winning the Commonwealth Cup despite missing the break. Another strong contender is Azure Blue trained by Michael Dods, following her victory in the Duke of York Stakes over Highfield Princess.

Ralph Beckett’s Kinross is another entry to watch out for; however, he will have to do without his usual partner Frankie Dettori due to suspension. Cold Case, Art Power and Run To Freedom are among other contenders vying for glory in this highly anticipated event.

Bet365 Superlative Stakes: City Of Troy Among 12 Contenders

In addition to the Pertemps Network July Cup, attention will also focus on the bet365 Superlative Stakes where Aidan O’Brien’s exciting colt City Of Troy is set to shine. The Justify offspring impressed with an easy win on his debut and even garnered praise from jockey Ryan Moore who rarely showers compliments without good reason.

Charlie Appleby’s Great Truth and Richard Hannon-trained duo Son and Haatem pose as potential rivals alongside City Of Troy among others vying for success in this thrilling contest of emerging talent.

Bunbury Cup: 42 Horses Remain Including Saeed bin Suroor’s Shining Blue

In yet another exhilarating race on offer at this upcoming event is the bet365 Bunbury Cup. With a total of 42 entries remaining including Saeed bin Suroor’s Shining Blue at the top of the weights, this fiercely competitive race promises to be a spectacle for racing enthusiasts.

As the countdown begins, anticipation is building for an exciting day filled with thrilling races and unexpected outcomes. The Pertemps Network July Cup, bet365 Superlative Stakes, and Bunbury Cup are set to captivate audiences worldwide as some of the finest horses battle it out on the turf in pursuit of glory.