NATIVE KHAN, who looked so promising when winning on his debut at our July meeting, takes the step up in class tomorrow when he tackles what looks an above-average Group 3 Solario Stakes at Sandown.
Take out Oh So Sharp and Raven's Pass from the roll of honour and this race can sometimes throw up an ordinary winner, but our fellow is one of three unbeaten colts in this year's field and it looks a hot renewal.
Native Khan was pulled out of Newbury last week-end because of the rain-softened ground, but Ed, who has booked the in-form Eddie Ahern for the ride, is encouraged by the weather forecast and is optimistic that the Azamour colt will get his favoured conditions.
He said:"Native Khan is something of a talking horse, and now he has to go and prove himself on the track. He made an impressive winning debut in his maiden, and, though the form is questionable, El Muqbil (fourth) could yet give it a boost in today's Convivial Stakes at York.
"œObviously, this is a step up the ladder for Native Khan. He is such a great mover that the fast ground at Sandown will suit him so much better than conditions he would have encountered at Newbury, and the stiff uphill finish will also be a plus as he is a colt who will soon be wanting a mile. It looks a tough race, but we will find out just where we stand with him."