Buick has confidence in Kate

Friday 19 October 2012

William Buick is expecting a big run from Elusive Kate in the Qipco-sponsored Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot.

The John Gosden-trained filly was only a length and a half behind race favourite Excelebration in third place in the Prix Jacques le Marois and was an unlucky second in the Sun Chariot Stakes on her latest start.

"She's a remarkable filly. She had a relatively late start to the year as she started in the Falmouth, but she's real tough. She's been running well all year. She was unlucky in the Sun Chariot, she stumbled coming out of the stalls and clipped a shoe - it was half on and half off," said Buick.

"She would have won because she wasn't striding out properly. She's versatile with the ground and I know we've got Excelebration to beat, but she'll give him a race. She has form on soft ground and that will be a big plus."

Tom Queally teams up with German challenger Indomito before he partners Frankel in the Qipco Champion Stakes.

"He'd have half a chance and he has shrewd connections, but it looks a tough race. I'll be doing my best," he said.

Most Improved had his finest hour to date in the St James's Palace Stakes at the Royal meeting, but has been well beaten in two outings since then. However, his trainer Brian Meehan is hoping the application of headgear will bring about a revival in the colt's fortunes.

"His victory in the St James's Palace Stakes here in June was the highlight of a stop-start season from only limited appearances," the Manton handler told www.brianmeehan.co.uk.

"He is tried in a visor for the first time and the hope is that it will bring out the best of his undoubted ability."