Stradivarius Arc bid an exciting prospect but may prove a bridge too far

Racing really is being spoilt by the spate of sportsmanship being shown by owners, with news that the outstanding stayer of his generation Stradivarius is to be aimed at the Arc.

What did a record-breaking fourth Goodwood Cup tell us that we didn't know before? Nothing as he is head and shoulders above his staying rivals and a bit of traffic trouble only shortened the expected winning distance over his Gold Cup victim Nayef Road.

There was a hint of disdain or even petulance from Stradivarius when he had his path blocked going to the final two furlongs as he looked to want to hang right to the rail.