Desert Lord Heading To Ascot Prix de l´Abbaye winner Desert Lord is in flying form after his pipe-opener at Naas earlier in the week.Kevin Ryan´s speedster had to carry a Group One penalty after his high-profile victory in France at the end of last season but was only beaten two and three-quarter lengths.He was up against Tax Free and Dandy Man ? two likely rivals for top sprinting honours later in the season ? and Ryan says the run should have put him spot on for the King´s Stand Stakes at Royal Ascot on June 19.'He´s in great order. He ran a huge race and I was delighted with him,' said Ryan.'He had a Group One penalty and the ground wouldn´t have been ideal for him so we were very pleased.'It was virtually a Group race in all but name. Dandy´s horse (Tax Free) has a great level of form and Dandy Man is very quick. It was a great performance with his penalty.'His next target is the King´s Stand. He goes on most ground but he wants it fast really.'We were very lucky at Longchamp last year because it is normally a lot softer than it was.'After the King´s Stand we will be looking at the Nunthorpe and races like that for him.'(C) PA Sport
