A trip to York for the Ebor remains a possibility for Royal Ascot winner Opinion.
The Sir Michael Stoute-trained colt stayed on well to claim the 12-furlong Duke of Edinburgh Handicap in Berkshire last week on what was just his 10th career start.
Harry Herbert, racing manager for owners Highclere Thoroughbred Racing, immediately pointed to the York race on August 24 and that could be the target.
“We have no definite plans yet but a race like the Ebor could be the longer term plan, although I suspect Sir Michael might want to run him again before then,” he said.
“He’s an improving horse and I think he will improve again for a step up in trip.
“He has enough speed to win the good mile-and-a-half events, as you saw last week, but he was staying on well at the end and going away so a step up to a mile and a six should suit.”
In the Ascot aftermath, Herbert also indicated a crack at the Melbourne Cup could be in the equation and while that has not been ruled out, Opinion will have to make great strides to book his ticket.
“He wouldn’t get in off his current rating so he would have to move up the ranks – it’s not totally out of the question,” said Herbert.
“He’s definitely got a progressive profile and it might not be Australia this year.
“We’re just taking it on a race by race basis, though, but hopefully there’s lots more fun to be had with him.”
