High hopes for Distinction

Distinction bids to bounce back to his best when he lines up in tomorrow’s Doncaster Cup.

The eight-year-old will be having just his third start since returning from a year off the track.

After finishing unplaced on his return in the Goodwood Cup, Distinction put up a better performance when fourth behind Septimus at York last time.

“He’s a very big horse and had been off for a time so he needed his first couple of races to get absolutely fully fit,” said Alex Smith, representative for owners Highclere Thoroughbred Racing.

“He appears to have got all his old enthusiasm and zest back so we expect him to go well, especially if it remains good to firm. He likes that sort of ground.”

Distinction won the Goodwood Cup in 2005 but failed to shine in this race the same year.

However, the Michael Stoute-trained gelding has won on Town Moor and Smith believes the track holds no fear.

“The track would suit him – he won a Listed race there and is in great form,” he added.

“He’s our flag bearer and has been the longest-serving horse for Highclere. It’s great to have him back in proper races again.”