Bletchley bids to crack Eternal Stakes code after Leicester success
4.00 Carlisle
ebfstallions.com Eternal Stakes | Listed | 6f195yds | 3yo fillies | RUK
Carlisle's Bell and Plate day has much historical significance, but perhaps the most exciting horse on the card runs in the relatively new addition, the 7f Listed ebfstallions.com Eternal Stakes.
Formerly staged at Warwick, the fillies' race then moved to Newmarket before reaching its new destination three years ago.
With an official rating of 103, Bletchley was highly tried last season, finishing runner-up in the Albany, and she was then sent off favourite for the Duchess of Cambridge and Firth of Clyde Stakes, but was unplaced.
She started this season in great style when winning a conditions race at Leicester and now bids for more black type. Trainer Ralph Beckett said: "The more rain the better. This was an obvious race for her after last time."
There is Irish interest with Ken Condon and Willie McCreery sending over runners, with McCreery saying of Aurora Butterfly: "She's in good order. They tell me Carlisle presents a stiff test and that's what she'll want, coming back in trip after her maiden win. It's a good opportunity to try to get her some black type."
Elusive Beauty ran in Group 3 company last time at the Curragh when fifth, and Condon said: "She's very consistent and tough. She has a bit to find on official ratings but she invariably turns up and gives a good account. We'll be delighted if she runs in the first three."
Eve Johnson Houghton is hoping Bahamadam can earn some black type following a win last time out in a Leicester handicap. She said: "She loves cut in the ground and goes there fresh having had a nice break."
The ground was described as good on Tuesday, but was expected to ease after rain through the day, and Johnson Houghton, who also has a runner for the Cumberland Plate with Fleeting Visit, added: "I'm not so sure about the ground for him. We don't know he doesn't like it and he has an each-way chance."
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- 7.12 Kempton: 'There's no reason why he can't win again' - quotes and analysis for a hot-looking sprint with two runners seeking a hat-trick
- 4.15 Brighton: 'He's shown plenty of speed at home' - key quotes and analysis for competitive handicap
- 6.30 Ballinrobe: 'I think he'll love it around there' - which trainer is particularly keen on his chances in the Mayo National?
- 3.00 Dusseldorf: Karl Burke chasing 1,000 Guineas double - don't forget his German Classic runner who 'should put up a good show'
- 2.40 Longchamp: 'The long-term plan is the Arc' - Group 1 stars line up in Prix d'Ispahan clash