Barton out to redeem reputation
The 10-year-old has captured the Martell Aintree Hurdle, beating Best Mate by 14 lengths, and the Mildmay Novices' Chase at the Liverpool course in the past two seasons.
But he has yet to show his best form this term following a torn ligament in his foot although he appeared to run well for a long way when sixth to La Landiere in the Cathcart Challenge Cup at the Cheltenham Festival earlier this month.
He was, however, reported to be in rude health yesterday by Peter Easterby, father of Malton trainer Tim.
"Barton's very well he's in good form," said Easterby senior.
"He's going to Aintree but we haven't decided which race yet."
Meanwhile connections will decide later this week which race Ekraar will contest at the Dubai World Cup meeting on Saturday. The son of Red Ransom won four races, including two Group Three events, when in the care of Marcus Tregoning as a juvenile and three-year-old but left to join the Godolphin operation for his four-year-old career.
However, the Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum-owned horse has now returned to the Kingwood House handler and the trainer is hopeful the pair can resume their winning successful partnership.
"The horse is in everything the Godolphin Mile, Sheema Classic, Duty Free and the World Cup itself," Tregoning told www.dubaiworldcup.com.
"Sheikh Hamdan will make the final decision, but I would guess it might be between the Sheema Classic and the Duty Free.
"I think he is definitely better on turf, and, while he may not win on Saturday, I am sure he'll pick up more good prizes in Europe this summer."
