Racing: Stravinsky flop lets in Mujahid

ANTE-POST UPDATE

MUJAHID, THE winner of the Dewhurst Stakes at Newmarket last autumn, has shortened to become the top-priced 5-1 favourite for the 2,000 Guineas with William Hill as a result of Stravinsky's defeat at the Curragh on Sunday.

Stravinsky finished behind Mujahid in the Dewhurst last year, but had nevertheless shortened up to become clear favourite for the 2,000 Guineas over the winter. However, the 2-5 favourite proved a big disappointment in the Loughbrown Race over seven furlongs on Sunday, going down by a head to the Kevin Prendergast-trained Tarfaa.

Afterwards Aidan O'Brien, Stravinsky's trainer, suggested the colt may not be his principal 2,000 Guineas hope. O'Brien could also call upon Black Rock Desert, Orpen or Lavery, although the last-named is thought less forward than his stable companions at present. O'Brien had better fortune at the Curragh with Saffron Waldon, who enhanced his Classic claims with a length victory over Carhue Gold in the Home Of The Classics Maiden.

Interest in the Oaks is limited and most bookmakers are finding it hard to form a market. However, William Hill and Stanley both make Sunspangled, winner of the Fillies' Mile at Ascot, their favourite.

Belmont King was yesterday cut to 16-1 from 25-1 for the Grand National by Coral.

OAKS STAKES (Epsom, Friday, 4 June): William Hill: 6-1 Sunspangled, 10- 1 Edabiya, 12-1 Saytarra, 14-1 Kilting, 16-1 others. Stanley: 8-1 Sunspangled, 10-1 Edabiya, 14-1 Kilting, Saytarra, 16-1 Calando, 20-1 Etizaaz, Hesitation, Oriental Fashion, Valentine Girl, 25-1 Barafamy, Kareymah, Mother Of Pearl, 33-1 Alabaq, Apple Of Kent, Aspen Leaves, City Of Gold, Claxon, Crystal Downs, Fairy Queen, Fatina, Rafayda, Sea Picture, Secret Wells, Social Scene, Subeen, Subito, Wild Heaven, Wishnah, Zahrat Dubai, 40-1 Auspicious, Bountiful Lady, Kafhanee, Kristina, Mrs Siddons, Pescara, Pink Coral, Three Green Leaves.