Scott reveals Behike’s switch in Royal Ascot target

Fresh from Coronation Cup glory at Epsom, George Scott will bid to continue his Group One-winning run when supplementing the rapidly-improving sprinter Behike for the King Charles III Stakes on the opening day of Royal Ascot.

Owned in partnership by Al Shaqab Racing and Amo Racing, the son of Night Of Thunder finished third to Owen Burrows’ Sandown Classic Trial winner Raaheeb on his Ascot debut over seven furlongs last autumn, but has really found his niche back in trip this term.

He has impressed twice over six furlongs at Lingfield, firstly when opening his account with a seven-length romp on the all-weather, before following up when returned to the Surrey venue for a novice contest on grass.

Behike holds an entry for the Commonwealth Cup at that same six-furlong distance at the Royal meeting, but the colt is instead set for five-furlong action against his elders instead in a race predicted to suit the exciting speedster.

Stiff Sprint Test Expected to Suit Royal Target

Scott said: “He’s going to be supplemented for the King Charles, I’ve confirmed that with Kia and Sheikh Joaan and they are both keen to make that move.

“The horse is training great and we’re happy to have a go at that. He’s a very fast horse and I think a stiff five furlongs at Ascot would be right up his street.

“I’m very aware of the task at hand, he has only run in novice company and it’s a big step up. But in terms of trying to provide him with his perfect conditions I think a stiff five is bang where he wants to be and why we’ve decided to go that route.”

He went on: “He started over seven furlongs, but you are learning all the time about these horses, especially when they are by a sire as talented as Night Of Thunder. Hopefully this could be a springboard for him as a top sprinter going forward in his career.”