Cox happy with New Seeker draw for Lincoln

Clive Cox has no regrets about choosing a high draw for New Seeker in the Stanleybet Lincoln at Doncaster tomorrow despite low numbers filling the first three places home in the Spring Mile this afternoon.

The Lambourn handler went for stall 21 at Thursday’s draw ceremony after last year’s winner Babodana broke from 23.

Though Barathea Dreams landed the Lincoln consolation race over the straight mile today from stall one, Cox remained in bullish mood ahead of his five-year-old’s bid to capture the first prize.

“I am very happy with him, he is in good order, and I am happy with our draw as well,” he said. “I don’t see being on the high side as a disadvantage. If given the chance I wouldn’t be swapping.

“The horse was gelded over the winter and has done very well, but I just hope it improves his form.

“The ability he showed us as a three-year-old was exceptional and we are still seeing signs of that at home. He has won over a stiff mile at Ascot in the Britannia and has the ability and the speed to win over shorter.”

Although he failed to get his head in front in five starts last term, New Seeker still performed well in high-class events, earning him a handicap mark of 100.

“He is on a high enough mark but has warranted it on his previous performances,” added Cox.

One of New Seeker’s main dangers is the unexposed Stream Of Gold, who will represent Michael Stoute and have the assistance of Robert Winston.

The four-year-old son of Rainbow Quest has only raced the four times, winning twice, and his jockey is oozing confidence ahead of his first ride on the colt.

“The ground will suit him, I am happy enough with the draw (13) and he is there to be beaten,” Winston told Channel 4.