Genki set to step back up

Genki will return to the highest level in the July Cup after recording his first Pattern-race success in the Chipchase Stakes at Newcastle.

The seven-year-old had run down the field in the Duke Of York Stakes and in the Golden Jubilee at Royal Ascot.

But turned out just a week after the latter race, the chestnut made the most of a drop to Group Three level, recording a narrow win under a fine ride by George Baker.

Trainer Roger Charlton admits he will have more on his plate against top-class sprinters at Newmarket on July 9, but he feels he deserves his place in the race.

“I was delighted to see the old boy win a Group race and I think George gave him a great ride,” said Charlton.

“You never really know what is going to happen when you run them back so quickly, but he’s tough and he’s done it well.

“I was slightly concerned about the ground as well, but he handled it fine. He travelled very strongly and it has worked out great.

“When an older horse like him keeps raising it game, it gives you great satisfaction.

“I think he’ll go for the July Cup now. It’s obviously going to be a tougher race but why not let him have a go?”

Genki may be joined in the July Cup by his exciting young stablemate Bated Breath, three places ahead when fifth in the Golden Jubilee.

Considering that was only the four-year-old’s ninth start, Charlton is excited about the future.

“He came out of Ascot absolutely fine and we’re mulling over the options. He’ll either run in the July Cup or the Hackwood Stakes,” Charlton added.

“He ran very well in the Jubilee. He got into a bit of a bumping match with Genki and might have done even better on better ground.

“He’s younger than a lot of the sprinters around so you would like to think he can continue to improve.”