11 declared for Champion Stakes Eleven runners have been declared for the Qipco Champion Stakes, at Ascot on Saturday, including the first four home from last year's renewal. Fascinating Rock led home Found, Jack Hobbs and Racing History in the showpiece event 12 months ago but the betting suggests they have a new kid on the block to beat. Jean-Claude Rouget, who saddled Literato to win this prize in 2007, will be represented by French Derby winner Almanzor who beat Found in the Irish Champion Stakes last time out. Aidan O'Brien, trainer of Arc winner Found, will have a second string to his bow in Derby runner-up US Army Ranger. Jack Hobbs was pulled up on his only outing this year in April, his only start since last year's race. "The field is not only deep, but very strong, and I don't think we're under any illusions," said trainer John Gosden. Gosden also saddles Maverick Wave with the field completed by Prince of Wales's Stakes winner My Dream Boat, Gabrial, one-time Derby favourite Midterm and The Grey Gatsby.
