Ascot aim for Shalaa

Connections of Shalaa remain hopeful the three-year-old will recover in time for October’s Qipco British Champions Sprint at Ascot.

The dual Group One winner is currently absent due to a pelvic injury and has not raced in 2016.

Shalaa, winner of the Prix Morny at Deauville last season, is now with trainer John Gosden as he continues his recovery.

Harry Herbert, racing manager to owners Al Shaqab Racing, has now confirmed a run-out at Ascot is the aim for Shalaa.

“Shalaa is back cantering with John Gosden,” he said, as reported by Sporting Life.

“If he has a completely uninterrupted preparation, then there is a possibility that he might come back for the Champions Sprint – so long as John and the yard are happy with him.

“I would say at this stage he looks fantastic and is moving well.”

Shalaa has managed five wins from six career starts and has three wins at Newmarket, including the Middle Park Stakes in September last year, but he is yet to compete at Ascot.

Meanwhile, Postponed is the current 3.75 favourite ahead of the Juddmonte International at York next month.

Time Test is 5.00 ahead of the August 17 showpiece and The Grey Gatsby is an 11.00 fancy.