Distant misses York date

Distant Way will not follow in the hoofprints of compatriot Electrocutionist by attempting to win the Juddmonte International at York.

Italy struck gold in the Group One when the former Valfredo Valiani charge, who later switched to Godolphin but died as a five-year-old, stormed to a neck verdict two years ago.

Distant Way, trained by Lorenzo Brogi, holds an entry in this year’s renewal having won the Premio Presidente della Repubblica at Capannelle for a second time on his last start.

Although Coral quote the six-year-old entire as a 14-1 chance for the International, his trainer has since ruled out a trip to the Knavesmire on August 21.

Brogi said: “Unfortunately, Distant Way doesn’t run at York.”

Coral cut Asiatic Boy to 13-2 from 8s for the International after punters reacted positively to the news Jamie Spencer will ride the South African raider at York.

The former champion jockey replaces Weichong Marwing aboard Mike de Kock’s UAE Derby winner, who was fourth to Ramonti in the Sussex Stakes at Goodwood.

“Although there’s no suggestion that Weichong Marwing did anything wrong at Goodwood, British punters clearly see Spencer’s booking as a boost to the chances of Asiatic Boy making an impact in what could be a vintage International,” said Coral spokesman David Stevens.

Juddmonte International Stakes, Coral bet: 7-4 Authorized, 5-2 Notnowcato, 3-1 George Washington, 13-2 Asiatic Boy, 14-1 Distant Way, 20-1 Passage Of Time, 40-1 Pressing, Salford Mill.