Blinkers Expected To Be Asset

Richard Hannon's Asset could sport a pair of blinkers when next seen as connections plot their next move with the smart four-year-old.

After finishing third behind Soldier's Tale at Royal Ascot, the Highclere Thoroughbred Racing-owned charge took sixth in the July Cup before chasing home Tariq in the Betfair Cup at Glorious Goodwood.

Racing manager Harry Herbert was delighted with his latest effort but feels a short holiday and the application of headgear might prove the catalyst for success.

'He ran another terrific race and we were pleased with that. He's a very interesting horse and seems to have just hit a flat spot in his last two races,' Herbert said.

'He hasn't travelled quite as well as he did in his first two races, so we're going to freshen him up. He's now having a 10-day to two-week holiday out of Richard's yard and he's enjoying some sunshine.

'We may just put a pair of blinkers on him next time to aid the sharpening process.

'He ran a hell of a race last time and I'm not being critical of the horse.

'But those who ride him at home ? and Ryan (Moore) agreed at Goodwood ? say he's probably a little bit better than that.'

While plenty of options remain open, Herbert admits the lure of the Betfred Sprint Cup will be difficult to ignore on September 8.

'He'll still be doing a couple of canters while he's away and we'll almost certainly head for Haydock, ground permitting,' Herbert continued.

'He's a terrific horse and we are thrilled to have such a consistent and exciting one on our hands. He could even travel abroad later in the year.'

(C) PA Sport