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| Staff Writer |
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Trueshan is being hailed as a formidable opponent by Andrew Balding as the two horses prepare to reignite their rivalry in the Group Two Doncaster Cup on Friday. This highly anticipated rematch will see Coltrane and Trueshan face off for the fifth time in their careers.
Coltrane, the racehorse owned by Mick and Janice Mariscotti, emerged victorious by a narrow margin in the 2-mile-2-furlong event last year. With the upcoming race, trainer Balding from Kingsclere anticipates another thrilling showdown. However, Coltrane faces a challenge as he carries a penalty for his recent triumph in the Lonsdale Cup at York. The stage is set for a fierce battle as Coltrane aims to defend his title against formidable opponents.
Balding, who joined this week's What A Shout, said, "He didn’t have to carry a penalty last year, so it’s a bit tougher this year.
"Trueshan should get his ground again and if he’s anywhere near being back to his best then he’ll be a very formidable opponent."
After successfully securing a Group Two victory this season and with another one within reach, Balding has high hopes for the son of Mastercraftsman to achieve even more success before the end of the campaign.
He added, "He’s a special horse, he’s been a joy to train and he’s given us some fabulous days.
"He’s had another great season this year. He won the Sagaro, he was second in the Gold Cup [at Ascot], third in the Goodwood Cup and he won the Lonsdale.
"He’s had a fantastic season already and hopefully we haven’t finished yet because we have the Doncaster Cup and then potentially the Long Distance Cup on QIPCO Champions Day."
Following that triumph, the 7YO had a brief hiatus from racing. His last outing saw him finishing seven lengths behind Coltrane in the Sagaro Stakes. Unfortunately, Trueshan had to be withdrawn from the Gr.1 Ascot Gold Cup at the royal meeting due to unsuitable ground conditions. It was during this race that Coltrane came in a close three-quarters of a length behind the winner, Courage Mon Ami.
The upcoming Doncaster Cup promises to be an exciting event, with several noteworthy contenders. Sweet William, trained by John and Thady Gosden, is expected to pose a significant threat. Although he was a beaten favorite when he finished second to Absurde in the Ebor at York, Sweet William has an impressive record. He has won three out of his seven career starts and secured second place in the remaining four.
Aidan O'Brien's representative in the race will be the Dubai Gold Cup winner, Broome. With the weight of his trainer's reputation behind him, Broome is undoubtedly a formidable competitor. Ian Williams, on the other hand, will rely on his course winner, The Grand Visir, to make a mark in the Doncaster Cup.