Song To Star In Forest

James Fanshawe's star mare Soviet Song looks sure to attract plenty of attention when she contests the Windsor Forest Stakes at Royal Ascot tomorrow.

The popular six-year-old will be making her second racecourse appearance of the season, having finished a creditable fourth behind Peeress in the Lockinge Stakes in May.

She will be aiming to register a first success at the Royal meeting after reaching the frame in all three attempts so far.

She finished third in last year's renewal of this contest, second to Refuse To Bend in the Queen Anne Stakes of 2004, and third to Russian Rhythm in the Coronation Stakes as a three-year-old.

The daughter of Marju has reportedly pleased connections in her build-up, and Matthew Budden, racing manager to owners Elite Racing Club, says confidence is high within the camp.

'Obviously we're hoping she has improved from her Newbury run, and she certainly seems to be in good order,' said Budden.

'We skipped the Group One (Queen Anne) as she doesn't have a penalty running in this race, and at the weights she looks pretty well in.

'There are a few in there with chances, especially Echelon, who has been in winning form, but we're more than hopeful,' he added.

Sir Michael Stoute's progressive filly Echelon has begun to fulfil her potential and is certain to have her supporters when going in pursuit of a four-timer.

Connections are expecting another good run on ground that will suit, but accept the one-mile contest represents her toughest task to date.

Chris Richardson, managing director to owners Cheveley Park Stud, said: 'She came out of her last race very well, and she's a filly that appreciates top of the ground, so that won't be a problem.

'We hope she runs well, but obviously we have a lot of respect for Soviet Song.

'She is stepping up into another class tomorrow so we'll see how she gets on, and Mick Kinane will ride,' he added.

Ireland's sole representative will be the David Wachman-trained Luas Line, who is expected to improve on her reappearance fourth at Leopardstown.

She enjoyed a profitable campaign last summer and tasted success at the highest level in a valuable race at Belmont Park, where she proved suited by fast going.

'She's in really good form but we have to give Soviet Song 5lb, which is going to be hard work,' Wachman explained.

'She'll improve from her Leopardstown run, and we're very hopeful that she'll put up a bold show.

'She likes the fast ground, and Kieren (Fallon) will take the ride.'

Germany and France are also set to be represented by Shapira and Chantilly Beauty respectively.

The former was highly tried last season but showed she is capable of classy form when finishing a two-length third to Divine Proportions, while the latter finished second to Echelon last time.

The 10-strong field is completed by Bon Nuit, Royal Alchemist, Violet Park, Zayn Zen and Godolphin's Astronomia.

? PA Sport