Motivator Future In The Balance Connections of Motivator will soon decide whether to give the Derby winner one more race or retire him to stud following his run in the Prix de l´Arc de Triomphe. The colt looked like taking Europe´s premier middle-distance prize for the Royal Ascot Racing Club when bursting into the lead two furlongs out but could not maintain his challenge in the final furlong. Even so he still finished a creditable fifth behind Hurricane Run to add to his second places in the Coral-Eclipse and Irish Champion Stakes after his Epsom Classic triumph. 'We were thrilled with the run. He came to win his race then he just emptied,' said Royal Ascot Racing Club racing manager Harry Herbert. 'Johnny (Murtagh) said he died on him in the last furlong or so, but he ran so well yet again. There were a lot of good horses behind him. 'We don´t know why he did not finish off the race - if it was the distance or the races he´s had or whatever. 'It´s a mystery in that respect. I´ve not had a full report from Michael (Bell) yet.' If Motivator does run again it will be in either the Emirates Airline Champion Stakes at Newmarket on Saturday week or the Breeders´ Cup Turf at Belmont Park on October 29. 'We´ll see how he is and what vibes he gives Michael and see whether we take up one of the two options or call it a day,' added Herbert.? PA Sport
