Shagraan gives Clive Cox another Bullet to fire at Beverley Shagraan has the chance to make Clive Cox the most successful trainer in William Hill Beverley Bullet history when he defends his crown on Sunday. The Lambourn handler won the Westwood’s Listed feature in three consecutive years thanks to stable stalwart Tis Marvellous’ brace in 2021 and 2022 and then Kerdos following in his footsteps a year later. Now he will attempt to land a fourth victory which will take him clear of current joint record holder Bryan Smart and has the defending champion on his side. Shagraan was a facile winner for Mick Appleby 12 months ago and having been tried in deep waters so far this term for his new handler, is backed to thrive back on familiar territory down in class. Cox said: “He ran especially well for us first time up in the spring and has been highly tried, including at Group One level, since then. “I’m pleased to take him back to a track that he’s shown a liking for last year and fingers crossed he will enjoy himself again there. “He sports cheekpieces for the first time, just for a little bit of concentration and to give him a bit of confidence. “We’ve had some wonderful success in the race and it’s always a very enjoyable track to visit at this time of year. Fingers crossed it will prove lucky once again.” JM Jungle is another to have his sights lowered just nine days after finishing a creditable seventh in the Nunthorpe at York. John Quinn, who trains the six-year-old in partnership with his son Sean, said: “We’re happy with him and he won’t mind the cut in the ground, so we’re not too worried about that. Let’s hope for a big run. “He ran well last week. He was beaten two and three-quarter lengths by what they say is the best sprinter around (Bacio), so he’s run really well and he seems fine. Let’s hope he can get his head in front.” Tracy Waggott’s Heavenly Heather was 10th in that Group One event, with Kevin Ryan’s Ain’t Nobody 13th, and both also make a quick return to action, while the latter’s stablemate Washington Heights arrives having finished second in Deauville most recently. A total of 11 will head to post for the track’s sprinting highlight.
