Charles Darwin bids to book Royal Ascot ticket at Naas

Having come forward from a promising debut run to land his maiden in impressive style at Navan last month, the Aidan O'Brien trained Charles Darwin bids to book his place at Royal Ascot in the Coolmore Stud The Antarctic Race at Naas on Sunday.

Leading early on his introduction over 5f at the Curragh, the full-brother to dual Group 1 winner Blackbeard was outpaced inside the final furlong.

Stepping up an additional furlong last time, the colt made all to run out an emphatic winner under Ryan Moore.

With connections yet to decide on which race to target at the Royal meeting next month, Sunday should prove a real fact finding mission.

Ballydoyle Stable representative Chris Armstrong said: "He's a good mover and fast ground won't affect him.

"When he won at Navan a couple of weeks ago, when Ryan (Moore) asked him, he really stretched.

"He has two runs under his belt so, all being well, this will be another nice run for him and leave him right for Ascot."

When asked if the drop to five furlongs is to see if he is a Norfolk or a Coventry horse, he replied: "Exactly. Obviously, different trip and different ground to what he had in Navan the last day.

"Another bit of experience under his belt and you see exactly where he sits."

Additional reporting by Michael Graham.