Moon to eclipse Musidora rivals

11:07am Wednesday 14th May 2008

MOONSTONE can strike in a white-hot renewal of the Tattersalls Musidora Stakes, in which a clutch of Oaks fancies will be out to test their Classic-winning credentials.

York's feature today has attracted a very strong line-up, with Aidan O'Brien's charge set to take on other prominent Juddmonte Oaks fancies, Cape Amber and Dar Re Mi.

Lush Lashes, sixth in the 1000 Guineas, also throws her hat in the ring and racing fans should be willing to travel a long way to see this race pan out.

Despite the strength in depth and Moonstone's relative inexperience, O'Brien's filly is a fairly confident choice after showing limitless promise on her debut.

She must step up considerably on that Leopardstown second but O'Brien's subsequent updates suggest she has done that in no uncertain terms and is now beginning to blossom for a Ballydoyle team really kicking into gear.

War Artist must shoulder a 5lb penalty after winning in Group One company in South Africa last term but still looks the one to be on in the Duke of York Hearthstead Homes Stakes.

James Eustace's new recruit is the class horse on show and should appreciate the quickish ground on the Knavesmire.

The sprinters are much of a muchness as a group at present but it was impossible not to be impressed by the manner in which the selection picked up late to finish an encouraging sixth last month.

Impeller is likely to be sent off at a big price but is worthy of each-way support in the opening William Birch And Sons Construction Stakes, while Meydan Princess has lots to offer in the Blue Square Premier Goes to Wembley Stakes.

Asian Lady also makes plentiful appeal in the Meteor Fillies' Handicap at Bath.

Trained by the in-form Roger Charlton, the three-year-old finished an eyecatching third behind Dunn'o over course and distance in April and looks reasonably treated on her handicap bow.

Steve Drowne did not give Asian Lady too demanding a race once her winning chance had gone last time and she has plenty of scope about her to prove a good deal better than her inaugural mark of 68.

Nostringsattached is not one of Jonjo O'Neill's leading lights but still appeals in the HSBC Handicap Hurdle at Exeter.

Willing Weasel is not the most romantic name but he should prove willing and very able at Perth.

Kim Bailey's six-year-old made an encouraging start over fences at Bangor and can can consolidate upon that thirdplaced finish with victory in the Polyflor Novices' Handicap Chase.

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