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| Staff Writer |
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White Birch is being primed for a tilt at the Prince Of Wales's Stakes at Royal Ascot following his encouraging fourth-place finish behind Los Angeles in the Tattersalls Gold Cup.
The John Murphy-trained grey, who captured the same prize in spectacular fashion last year, encountered traffic problems during the running but stayed on strongly to claim fourth spot. Assistant trainer George Murphy believes the admirable performer emerged from the contest in excellent shape.
"He seems in very good form and came out of the last race very well. We're very happy with him," George Murphy revealed. "The plan is to go to Ascot for the Prince Of Wales's Stakes."
The Group One contest represents White Birch's first venture to the royal meeting, with Los Angeles also expected to reappear in the prestigious heat.
Murphy remains confident about his charge's versatility regarding underfoot conditions. "I don't think the ground makes that much difference to him. It was good ground the last day and he ran a lovely race," he added.