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Team behind Yoshida looking forward to Queen Anne

Royal AscotRoyal Ascot
© Photo Healy Racing

American challenger Yoshida is reported to be in rude health ahead of his bid for glory in the Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot on Tuesday.

Bill Mott’s charge won the Grade One Turf Classic at Churchill Downs in early May, after which he was prepared for the trip across the Atlantic.

The trainer’s son and assistant Riley Mott has overseen his preparations since he touched down on British soil and speaking at an international challengers press morning in Newmarket on Thursday, issued an upbeat bulletin on his well being.

Mott said: “He shipped very well and he seems to be his normal self.

“Ever since last year as a three-year-old we’ve had this race in the back of our mind, if he continued to improve from three to four.

“We’ve always felt between eight and nine furlongs is his optimum distance. On his third career start he won a Listed race at Pimlico over a mile and that gives us confidence.

“He always trains very forwardly and he’s a strong horse.

“Hopefully he’ll be strong at the finish line at Ascot.”

With the weather forecast predominantly dry, a fast surface looks likely to prevail for the opening day the Royal meeting.

However, Mott insists connections of Yoshida would not be overly concerned should the rain arrive.

He added: “He doesn’t necessarily have to have quick ground and actually, his two best races have been on soft ground, especially last time at Churchill Downs.

“He’s run well on fast ground as well and he’s a horse that’s pretty versatile, both towards the pace scenario as well as the track condition.”