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| Staff Writer |
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Sajir faces a crucial examination when tackling the Gr.3 Prix du Palais-Royal at ParisLongchamp on Sunday, with trainer Andre Fabre harbouring ambitious Royal Ascot plans for his improving sprinter.
The 4YO, successful in five of his ten career starts, arrives following an impressive victory in the Abernant Stakes at Newmarket. That six-furlong triumph demonstrated his versatility, having previously scored over six and a half furlongs.
Sunday's seven-furlong assignment represents another step up in trip for Sajir, with Fabre monitoring his charge's adaptability to the extended distance.
"Sajir will run this weekend over seven furlongs. He won well at Newmarket, I was pleased enough with him," said Fabre.
Success in the Prix du Palais-Royal could secure Sajir a ticket to the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot next month.
"If he runs well we'll see then about taking him to Ascot. He is entered in Group One over six furlongs, the Queen Elizabeth, that could be the race for him."
Opposition includes Lake Forest, trained by William Haggas, whose recent Golden Eagle victory in Australia demonstrated his international class.