Elsworth: Punch will improve for Sagaro run

Trainer David Elsworth believes that his popular stayer Persian Punch will improve for his first run of the season in the Bovis Homes Sagaro Stakes at Ascot on Wednesday.

The 11-year-old gelding, who last year landed the Goodwood and Jockey Club Cups, has been allowed to reach fitness naturally by Elsworth, who said today: “He’s done his preparation, but I’m not one to gallop and gallop them if I think they’re not quite ready.

“I’ve always said this side of the training is like cooking and to get the best out of them you have to do it slowly without suddenly turning up the heat.

“Punch is in wonderful form and I’m looking forward to running him in a race he wasn’t ready for last season, but realistically whatever happens he’ll be better for the run.”

Persian Punch’s regular jockey Martin Dwyer will once again be in the plate at Ascot.

The Group Three Sagaro Stakes has attracted a total of 14 runners with dual Gold Cup winner Royal Rebel returning to action for the first time since suffering an injury following the second of his victories in the stayers’ crown in 2002.

Johnny Murtagh was on board for both Gold Cup wins and will again take the ride on the Mark Johnston-trained eight-year-old.

Johnston also runs last season’s Queen’s Vase winner Shanty Star, who will be partnered by Kevin Darley, and his tough campaigner Darasim, the mount of Joe Fanning.

Millenary, who was beaten a short head by Persian Punch in last season’s Jockey Club Cup, returns to action here with Richard Quinn booked to ride.

Savannah Bay, who will be ridden by Frankie Dettori, is another interesting contender.

They were beaten a neck in the race 12 months ago but following an objection to the winner and a stewards’ inquiry, Alcazar, who passed the post first, was disqualified and placed second. Savannah Bay was awarded the race but after a subsequent appeal, Alcazar was reinstated the winner.