Swan outlines Rajik worry

Charlie Swan fears Rajik may just need the run in tomorrow’s totepool Sagaro Stakes at Ascot.

The six-year-old improved out of all recognition last season, winning valuable events at Galway twice and at the Curragh.

He signed off for the season with a thoroughly creditable effort in the Irish St Leger where he finished fourth to Sans Frontieres.

Swan hopes to run him in the Ascot Gold Cup in June and sees this as the ideal race to begin his season.

“This looks a nice race to start him off in but he’s never won first time out before,” said Swan.

“I’ve got him as fit as I can but he often takes a run to get warmed up.

“He really improved last year. He was fourth in the Irish Leger but the ground was on the soft side for him that day so there is no danger on that score tomorrow.

“He stays really well, I think the trip will suit him and obviously this is a stepping stone towards the Ascot Gold Cup. I’m just hoping he’s sharp enough for tomorrow.

“There aren’t that many more suitable races before the Gold Cup. There’s one at Leopardstown but we’ll see. He might go straight there if he ran really well.”