Karakontie bound for Chantilly
The Jonathan Pease-trained colt signed off his juvenile year with victory in the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere at Longchamp and although he suffered a narrow reverse on his return to action, he made the anticipated progress to clinch the French 2000 Guineas.
Alan Cooper, racing manager for owners the Niarchos family, said: “The plan is to run at Chantilly, unless the ground is too heavy.
“The horse is in good shape. He did a nice piece of work on Monday and both Jonathan and Stephane (Pasquier) are very pleased with him.
“The trip is an unknown and one always hopes he will get a good draw.”
Karakontie is one of 21 horses going forward for the French Derby, with Aidan O’Brien leaving in Sunday’s impressive Gallinule Stakes winner Adelaide, as well as Johann Strauss and Geoffrey Chaucer.
The latter is expected to join stable companion Australia at Epsom on Saturday week.
Kevin Ryan looks set to be represented by The Grey Gatsby, winner of the Dante Stakes at York.
The other British-trained contender is Roger Varian’s Ayrad.
