Sky Majesty needs to avoid traffic problems at Haydock

Connections of Sky Majesty are praying for a trouble-free run in the British Stallion Studs EBF Cecil Frail Stakes on Friday.

William Haggas’ hold-up performer has won Group races in both of her seasons racing to date and is down in Listed company on Merseyside, where a sizeable field has been assembled.

“I’m surprised at the size of the field, one has come out but there’s still 16 in a Listed race and the draw can play such a big part, especially with the ground riding easy,” said Sean Graham, racing manager for joint-owner Tony Bloom, on Sky Sports Racing.

“I think we’re on the right side of the draw, the filly that finished in front of us at Newmarket (Rosy Affair) is drawn 15 and we’re in 11. Our filly should handle the ground OK as she won a Group Two on very heavy ground at Chantilly as a two-year-old so that’s not a worry.

“The way she’s going to be ridden, as she’s generally held up, we might encounter traffic problems.”

Karl Burke’s Half Sovereign changed hands for €2,600,000 after a fruitful first season but has struggled so far this term, most recently in the French 1000 Guineas.

“Obviously she didn’t stay in the French Guineas. We thought she would. She stays seven well,” said Burke.

“William Buick got off and said he had loads of horse under him early. He could have made the running if he wanted to. She’s not a slow filly.

“She doesn’t mind the cut and the ground. So if she is only going to be a seven-furlong or a six-furlong filly, there’s very few opportunities for them and certainly very few fillies-only races.

“It’s a little bit of a chance dropping back from a mile to six. But as I say, on slow ground I think she’s plenty quick enough. She’s bounced out of that French race really well so hopefully she can put up a much better show.”