Trainer William Haggas is looking forward to seeing Melbourne Cup nomination Sun Central test his powers at a higher level after clinching his third victory of the campaign at Chester on Saturday.
A half-brother to the brilliant George Washington, Sun Central has developed into an exciting stayer this season, with an impressive display in the Silver Cup at York in mid-July clear evidence of his progression.
The four-year-old was due to return to the Knavesmire for a tilt at the Ebor last month, but was withdrawn following heavy rain in Yorkshire.
He gained some compensation on the Roodee with a 1-1/4 length defeat of Bite Of The Cherry.
Haggas said: “He did very well to win off a 108. It’s a pity we couldn’t have a stab at the Ebor, but that’s the way it goes.
“The ground was slow enough for him on Saturday and it was a messy race.
“He got the run of the race as he stayed out of the trouble, but it was a good performance and we’ll look to step him up to stakes company now.
“I don’t have a definite plan for him.”
Asked whether the British Champions Long Distance Cup at Ascot could be an option for Sun Central, the Newmarket trainer said: “He’s in it, but you’d imagine the ground could be soft by then.
“We have him and Harris Tweed in the race. One likes soft and the other likes fast ground, so I’d imagine we’ll have a runner.”
