Eclipse possibility for George Washington
Options remain open for George Washington after his fourth-place finish in Tuesday’s Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot.
The four-year-old, winner of last year’s 2000 Guineas, was retired to stud at the end of last season only to return to training after suffering fertility problems.
O’Brien was satisfied with his comeback performance and will take his time before deciding on the Danehill colt’s next target.
“He cantered this morning and seems very well – he took the race very well,” said O’Brien.
“Obviously he has options like the Sussex and all those kinds of races.”
George Washington tackled 10 furlongs on dirt on his final start at the Breeders’ Cup last term and connections have not ruled out having another try at that trip.
“We always thought he would get further in time and the Eclipse is an option as well,” O’Brien told BBC Sport.
“It’s very possible he will step up but we wouldn’t mind staying at a mile I think.”
The sponsors have introduced George Washington into their Coral-Eclipse betting as 5-2 second favourite behind Vodafone Derby hero Authorized.
“A clash between last year’s champion miler and this season’s Derby winner would be mouth-watering, but as the former would be tackling 10 furlongs if he heads to Sandown, we would favour the younger horse to come out on top,” said Coral’s David Stevens.
Coral-Eclipse, sponsors bet: Evens Authorized, 5-2 George Washington, 7-1 Red Rocks, Notnowcato, 14-1 Maraahel, 33-1 Mashaahed, 40-1 Pressing, 50-1 Kandidate.
