Halford predicts bright future for Massiyn
The lightly-raced three-year-old, owned by the Aga Khan, went down by a head right on the line to the seasoned campaigner Royal Diamond in a bunch finish to the mile and three-quarter Classic.
“We were thrilled with him. He ran a blinder,” said Halford. “He’s come out of it really well, so we’re very happy with him.
“I’ll talk with Pat Downes, racing manger to His Highness (the Aga Khan) this week, and we’ll make a decision. We have never planned any further. Saturday had been the plan for a long time.
“He’s progressed with every run. He’s a very genuine horse and exceptionally tough.
“He’s a horse, I’d imagine, who will make an even better four-year-old. He’s got a great future.”
Meanwhile, Cristoforo Colombo is among 13 confirmations for the Dubai Duty Free Mill Reef Stakes at Newbury on Saturday.
The Aidan O’Brien-trained colt was a late withdrawal from the Vincent O’Brien Stakes won by Dawn Approach at the Curragh on Saturday.
Further Irish interest comes in the shape of Cougar Ridge (David Wachman) and Wexford Opera (Jim Bolger).
One place behind Cristoforo Colombo at the Royal meeting was the Richard Hannon-trained Sir Prancealot, who returned to winning ways in the Flying Childers at Doncaster on Friday. He is not a certain starter, however.
Gimcrack runner-up Heavy Metal has been left in by Mark Johnston, and John Gosden has an interesting contender in once-raced Yarmouth maiden winner Taayel.
Mick Channon’s Cay Verde was a Group Three winner in France last time out, while Marco Botti’s Moohaajim, not beaten far in fifth behind Reckless Abandon in the Prix Morny, and Michael Bell’s Kimberella are others to stand their ground.
