Canford favourite for QEII Bookmakers have put in Canford Cliffs as favourite in his defining clash with Makfi in Saturday's Sony-sponsored Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot. Richard Hannon's colt finished third behind the French ace in the 2000 Guineas in May before gaining his revenge over a below-par Makfi in the St James's Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot. They both won on their next start, Canford Cliffs in the Sussex Stakes while Makfi caused waves in beating Goldikova at Deauville, and will arrive in Berkshire at the top of their game. Totesport are keenest on Canford Cliffs, making him their even-money jolly with the Mikel Delzangles-trained Makfi at 9-4. It is not just a two-horse race, however, with last year's winner Rip Van Winkle sure to catch the eye of many punters as he reverts to a mile following his victory in the Juddmonte International at York. He is a 7-2 chance with Skybet, while his trainer Aidan O'Brien has thrown a curve ball into the mix by leaving in Irish Champion Stakes and Irish Derby winner Cape Blanco. Ballydoyle could also run last year's Dewhurst winner Beethoven, Windsor Palace, Air Chief Marshal and Steinbeck. Godolphin supplemented Celebration Mile winner Poet's Voice, meaning there are 14 possibles. Dick Turpin, a stablemate of Canford Cliffs, was a notable absentee, while Mick Channon has decided against running his classy filly Music Show.
