Shirocco Claims Sixth Vodafone Coronation Cup For Fabre

Shirocco became the sixth winner of the Vodafone Coronation Cup for trainer Andre Fabre when powering home to a length and three quarter success from Ouija Board in the mile-and-a-half contest.

The five-year-old Monsun horse led in the early part of the race before retaking the lead at the top of the hill and despite a sustained challenge from Ouija Board in the final quarter mile, that is where he stayed.

Fabre said of 8/11 winning favourite: 'I was pleased with that run - he´s a very genuine horse.

'I saw Ouija Board come up to challenge but I never felt he was in danger.

'The Arc will be one of his main targets again this year and there is a distinct possibility that he could run in the King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes at Ascot next month.'

When questioned about the relative merits of Shirocco, Hurricane Run and Visindar, Fabre replied: 'How can I answer that? It is like trying to compare me to Naomi Campbell!

'Why should I keep him and Hurricane Run apart this season?

'I don´t think he´s shown improvement to win here today - he was just repeating his best form.'

Successful jockey Christophe Soumillon added: 'Shirocco is a lovely horse - he can do anything.

'He has speed, stamina and is just as good on firm or soft ground.

'He is a lovely horse to ride and always runs his race.

'I cannot really compare him and Hurricane Run - they are two champions with different styles of running.'

Fabre´s previous wins in the Vodafone Coronation Cup came with Saint Estephe (1986), In The Wings (1990), Apple Tree (1994), Sunshack (1995) and Swain (1996).