Playboy eyes sprint prize

Bond Playboy was today confirmed on course for the inaugural running of the £50,000 (€73,000) tote.co.uk Sprint at Ascot on Saturday.

The three-year-old handicap, the first over an extended five furlongs at the Berkshire track, heads the six-race card, all of which is sponsored by the Tote.

Bond Playboy ran well last time when beaten a short head by St Ivian at Southwell 12 days ago and is reported to be still in good order by trainer Bryan Smart.

He said: “He’s in great form. He looks well and worked well this morning and I couldn’t be more pleased with him. He will go to Ascot with Paul Scallan on him.”

Bond Playboy has in the past won on an easy surface and Smart added: “I wouldn’t want it any firmer than good. I think it will be genuine good ground and that’s what I’m hoping for.”