Turpin takes French test

Unbeaten juvenile Dick Turpin is set to make the leap to Group One company in the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere at Longchamp next Sunday.

Richard Hannon’s colt has won each of his four starts, including the Group Two Richmond Stakes at Goodwood and a richly-endowed sales event in Ireland last time.

Hannon had been mulling a crack at the Darley Dewhurst Stakes next month but owner John Manley would prefer to try seven furlongs for the first time in France.

“We were considering the Dewhurst, but the owners are keen to go to France and that is fine by me,” the trainer told www.richardhannonracing.tv.

“Dick Turpin has benefited from a break and he has been moving well on the gallops.

“I know it is his first time beyond six furlongs, but we have always thought that seven furlongs or a mile would suit him, and he ought to get a bit of ground there, too.”