Caballo De Mar primed for York Ebor Festival after Goodwood absence

George Scott believes Caballo De Mar’s decision to bypass Goodwood could give the Group 1 winner a significant advantage when he takes on Trawlerman again in the Weatherbys Lonsdale Cup at York.

The five-year-old is set to line up in the Group 2 contest on Friday of the Ebor Festival, with Scott hoping a quieter preparation will allow his stayer to produce a much-improved performance following a disappointing run at Royal Ascot.

Caballo De Mar finished last of 11 in the Ascot Gold Cup when beaten by Scandinavia and Trawlerman. However, Scott feels the result failed to reflect the horse’s true ability, with a wide draw forcing him to use considerable energy early in the race.

The son of Phoenix Of Spain had previously enjoyed a superb campaign, landing his second Group 1 victory in the Prix Vicomtesse Vigier at Longchamp in May.

Scott now believes Caballo De Mar is ready to bounce back at York, where he will carry a 3lb penalty for his latest Group 1 success. He is currently the 5-1 second favourite for the 2m½f Lonsdale Cup, with Trawlerman heading the market at even money.

Scott said: “I think Caballo De Mar paid the price of how the race panned out at Ascot. He was drawn very wide and couldn’t get into a position. He used plenty of gas to get into position and then suffered from being on the coattails of the first and second for all of the race. He was a clear third at the furlong pole, but took himself into the red zone.”

The trainer believes the decision to miss Goodwood has allowed Caballo De Mar to recover fully and arrive at York in better condition than many of his rivals.

He added: “He’s in great shape and is showing me the benefits of skipping Goodwood. He’s showing all the fruits of having a bit of a break and will be fresher than most at York. His best trip is two miles rather than further.”

A return to France could also be on the agenda later in the season, with Caballo De Mar potentially targeting the Prix du Cadran at ParisLongchamp in October as he bids to defend his crown in the staying Group 1.

Strong Scott team heading to York

Caballo De Mar is owned by Victorious Forever, who will have several representatives from the Scott stable at the Ebor Festival.

Among them is Mrair, who is expected to contest the Group 2 Gimcrack Stakes, while new acquisition Gamrai is another entered at York.

Gamrai’s options remain open, however, with Scott considering a switch to Newbury for the Group 3 Geoffrey Freer Stakes.

Scott said: “Gamrai is in the Ebor, but he has the option of running at Newbury [Group 3 Geoffrey Freer Stakes] on Saturday instead.”

The Ebor Festival will provide a major test for some of the leading stayers and middle-distance performers in the country, with Caballo De Mar’s clash with Trawlerman one of the races attracting particular attention.

After his difficult experience at Ascot, Scott will be hoping the Lonsdale Cup gives his two-time Group 1 winner the chance to show what he can really do over his preferred two-mile distance.

York Ebor Festival FAQs

When is the York Ebor Festival?

The York Ebor Festival takes place at York Racecourse, with the four-day meeting featuring some of the biggest races of the British Flat season.

What race is Caballo De Mar running in at York?

Caballo De Mar is entered in the Group 2 Weatherbys Lonsdale Cup, which is run over 2m½f.

Who is favourite for the Lonsdale Cup?

Trawlerman is currently the favourite for the Lonsdale Cup, with Caballo De Mar among the leading contenders.

Can I enjoy hospitality at the York Ebor Festival?

Yes. Eventmasters offers hospitality experiences for major racing events, providing guests with premium surroundings, quality dining and an enhanced race-day experience. Availability and packages can vary by event.

Why did Caballo De Mar miss Goodwood?

George Scott believes skipping Goodwood has allowed Caballo De Mar to recover and freshen up ahead of York. The trainer feels the break could give his horse an advantage over rivals who have had a busier schedule.

What could Caballo De Mar run in after York?

A return to France is possible, with the Prix du Cadran at ParisLongchamp in October a potential target. Caballo De Mar won the Group 1 race last year and could attempt to retain his title.