King Has Royal Target

Connections of the improving Pearly King are now considering Royal Ascot after a cosy victory in the London Paddy Power Gold Cup at Newbury on Saturday.

The son of Kingmambo landed a Yarmouth maiden a month ago but has rattled off a hat-trick in no time, culminating in his win at the Berkshire track.

The three-year-old still holds an engagement in the Budweiser Irish Derby but Bruce Raymond, racing manager for owners Gainsborough Stud, says a handicap at the Royal meeting is a more realistic target.

'Pearly King won very cosily at Newbury but Sir Michael Stoute was more pleased with the fact that he handled the soft ground so well,' said Raymond.

'He does have an entry in the Irish Derby but for the moment I think he will stick to handicapping. Royal Ascot will be on the agenda.'

Raymond also had news of Best Alibi, who runs in the same colours, after he finished second in the Dante at York last week.

'I thought Best Alibi ran a good race and we were pleased with the way he travelled on the ground,' Raymond said.

'He will be a much better horse on good ground. He is still a possible for the Derby provided the ground comes up good.'

? PA Sport