Motivator has the speed for Eclipse trip, claims Herbert

MOTIVATOR has the speed to join racing legends such as Mill Reef and Nashwan by adding the Coral-Eclipse Stakes at Sandown on Saturday to his victory in the Vodafone Derby.

That is the view of Harry Herbert, racing manager for the 230-strong Royal Ascot Racing Club, who own the unbeaten son of Montjeu.

The brilliant five-length Epsom hero will be tackling older horses for the first time - as well as Shamardal, winner of the French 2000 Guineas, French Derby and St James’s Palace Stakes - as he bids to take his 100 per cent record to five for trainer Michael Bell.