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| Staff Writer |
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Mick Appleby is plotting a Commonwealth Cup assault with Big Mojo after the 3YO demonstrated his effectiveness over six furlongs at the Berkshire venue.
The gelding, sporting identical silks to former stable star Big Evs, has been following a comparable trajectory since his juvenile campaign. After capturing the Molecomb at Goodwood, Big Mojo contested both the Flying Childers and Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf Sprint.
While Big Evs remained a specialist five-furlong performer before retiring to stud, Big Mojo has embraced the step up in distance. His 3YO bow saw him claiming the Commonwealth Cup Trial Stakes at Ascot, proving his adaptability over the extended trip.
Despite finishing fourth in the Sandy Lane at Haydock, beaten just a length and a half, connections remain optimistic about their charge's prospects. The trainer believes traffic problems cost Big Mojo a winning opportunity.
"He's in very good order, I thought he ran a good race in the Sandy Lane, but he just got stuck behind a wall of horses," Appleby explained. "There was no way through for him, otherwise I think he would have won so it was a shame. Royal Ascot is the plan, we'll more than likely be running in the Commonwealth Cup over six furlongs."