Goodwood: the racecourse stages two Classic trials this week

  PICTURE:Getty Images  

Oaks hopes out to stake claim at Goodwood

THE Height Of Fashion Stakes at Goodwood on Thursday represents the last chance for two Investec Oaks hopes to stake their claim  for Epsom.

Looking to follow Snow Fairy, who won the Listed race two years ago before going on to Epsom glory, are Oaks entries Coquet and Nayarra, who feature in a seven-strong field.

The Hughie Morrison-trained Coquet is a general 33-1 shot for Epsom, while Qipco 1,000 Guineas ninth Nayarra, trained by in-form Mick Channon, can be backed at 50-1.

Channon said: "She has a penalty but I'm not worried about that. I was pleased with her run in the 1,000 Guineas and have always felt she would be better over 1m2f or even further."

John Gosden: two in Cocked Hat

  PICTURE: Edward Whitaker  

The following day Goodwood stages the Listed Cocked Hat Stakes, a race used in the past as a trial for the Derby and one that has a glittering roll of honour.

Two years ago subsequent two-time Group 1 winner Rewilding took the race, while 12 months ago Masked Marvel, who went on to land the St Leger, was victorious.

Masked Marvel's trainer John Gosden has declared Michelangelo, who made an eyecatching debut when third at Newmarket, and Jungle Beat for the 1m3f contest.

Impressive London Gold Cup winner Expense Claim makes a quick reappearance with Perennial and Polydamos completing the field.

Speaking on Wednesday afternooon, clerk of the Course Seamus Buckley said: "The ground is drying out and I will put some water on the course this evening to maintain the existing conditions. 

"I am pleased with the course, which looks in great order, and we are all looking forward to three days of good racing."