Hoof It swerves Sprint Stakes

Hoof It is the notable absentee as 18 horses remained at the latest declaration stage for the Qipco British Champion Sprint Stakes at Ascot on Saturday.

The Stewards’ Cup winner, who narrowly failed in the Sprint Cup at Haydock last time, has still not recovered from the setback which forced him out of the Prix de l’Abbaye at Longchamp.

Mick Easterby’s four-year-old lost a shoe three weeks ago which prevented him from doing any serious work for a week.

Connections are still not satisfied with his progress.

David Easterby, the trainer’s son and assistant, said: “It’s still the same problem it was before, and we’re working through it.

“The overseas races are still options but we haven’t made any decisions yet, we’re concentrating on getting the horse sound.

“All our efforts are going into doing what is right by the horse as there is always next year.”

In his absence, Deacon Blues and Moonlight Cloud are likely to be towards the forefront of the betting.

James Fanshawe’s Deacon Blues has progressed with each run this season, while Freddie Head’s Moonlight Cloud looked a revelation dropped in trip.

Fanshawe could also be represented by Ascot specialist Society Rock.

Bated Breath remains in contention but is due to compete in Canada this weekend. His trainer Roger Charlton could still be represented by Genki.

Former Prix de l’Abbaye winner Total Gallery could have his first outing for Henry Candy, while the three-year-old fillies Hooray and Ladies Are Forever could also run.

Royal Rock, Dafeef, Medicean Man, Libranno and Wizz Kid, fifth in the Abbaye, are others who are poised to line up the Group Two contest.