Hills double-handed in Classic trial

Barry Hills looks to hold a strong hand in tomorrow’s Group Three Betfred Classic trial at Sandown.

The British trainer will saddle two of the five-strong filed in the 10-furlong contest, which has not thrown up a Derby winner since Benny The Dip was runner-up at the Esher venue in 1997.

However, that does not mean the race does not attract a high quality of horse.

Both Fantastic Light and Sakhee were successful in the event in successive years in 1999 and 2000 and connections of tomorrow’s runners will all be harbouring dreams of Classic success.

Private Business and The Last Drop both take their chance for Hills, while Primary will have his first start for William Haggas after finishing last in the Dewhurst.

Haggas admits to being slightly in the dark about his runner and he is using the race to hopefully guide him towards some bigger targets later in the season.

“He’s in good form and I hope he’ll run well,” said Haggas.

“He didn’t run with much credit in the Dewhurst though did he.

“I don’t know the horse from last year as we only got him from David Loder in the winter.

“David did say he was quite a lazy worker so I just hope that I have done enough with him.

“It will be interesting and we’ll know where we are going with him after tomorrow.”

Baan takes his chance for Mark Johnston after finishing down the field in the Free Handicap at Newmarket earlier in the month.

He will be ridden by Martin Dwyer, who got his career as second jockey for Hamdan Al Maktoum off to a flying start by winning the John Porter Stakes on Mubtaker last weekend.

“I think after his run in the Free Handicap everybody connected thought a step up to a mile and a quarter would suit him,” said Angus Gold, Racing Manager to the owner.

“Everything happened a bit quick for him at Newmarket.

“He’s a very small horse and he’s tough but whether he’s good enough is another matter. We shall see tomorrow.”

Jadalee completes the line-up for Marcus Tregoning.