Connoisseur on course for Phoenix

Michael Bell reports Art Connoisseur to be at the top of his game as he prepares to tackle Group One company for the first time in Sunday’s Independent Waterford Wedgwood Phoenix Stakes at the Curragh.

The Lucky Story colt maintained his unbeaten record with a hugely impressive success in the Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot, a victory which promoted him to the head of the ante-post market for next year’s 2000 Guineas.

He is now ready to make the trip across the Irish Sea and Bell is hopeful he can make it worthwhile.

“He is very much on target for Sunday and is in very good health,” said Bell.

“He seems to be in great form with himself and we are very much looking forward to the race.”