Rhythm still on course for Guineas
Connections of Russian Rhythm today scotched rumours that the filly is set to bypass the Sagitta 1000 Guineas.
The Cheveley Park Stud-owned daughter of Kingmambo was in action, under Kieren Fallon, on the Limekilns trial ground in Newmarket at the weekend but her performance brought a mixed reaction from work watchers, prompting speculation that she would not be ready in time for Sunday’s race.
“I heard it on the radio this morning that she might not run. As far as we are concerned, unless there is a problem, which I don’t believe there is, she will be in the line-up,” said Chris Richardson, the executive responsible for racing at Cheveley Park Stud.
Russian Rhythm’s trainer Sir Michael Stoute last week issued a word of caution that she may not be ready in time for the Classic.
“She’s a smashing filly but I think as he (Stoute) has always said it may be coming a week too soon,” added Richardson.
“But she’s got a lot of ability, she’s done well and there is only one Guineas.”
Russian Rhythm won her first three starts as a two-year-old, including York’s Lowther Stakes where she performed a Houdini act to land the Group Two prize.
But her winning run came to an end in the Cheveley Park Stakes at Newmarket where she could not match the speed of Airwave and was beaten a length and a half into second place.
However, she was found to have come into season at Newmarket and has been prominent in ante-post lists for the 1000 Guineas throughout the winter. She is currently a top-priced 6-1 chance for the Classic.
