King still in Lagardere frame

King Torus is still likely to head for France on Sunday for the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere.

Although connections have concerns about the forecast testing conditions, the talented juvenile was one of 18 horses to have stood their ground for the Longchamp Group One.

The Oratario colt could bid to capture the Lagardere to add to his victories at Group Two level in Newmarket’s Superlative Stakes and the Vintage Stakes at Glorious Goodwood

“King Torus will probably go to France. We’re a bit worried about the ground but we plan to go there,” said Barry Simpson, racing manager to owner Sir Robert Ogden.

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Kevin Manning is looking forward to riding Whipless for his boss Jim Bolger.

He feels the colt, a six-furlong winner at the Curragh on his latest start, will appreciate the extra furlong.

“He won at the Curragh and the race has turned out quite well, so it will be interesting to see him stepped up to seven furlongs,” said the Irish jockey.

“There was plenty of ease in the ground at the Curragh.

“I don’t know how deep it will be there, but I don’t think it will be a big inconvenience for him.”