Cesare tops Lockinge confirmations
by Michelle Fortune, 15 May 2008
Aidan O'Brien will be double-handed in Saturday's Juddmonte Lockinge, which has attracted a total of 12 horses at the 48-hour stage.
The Newbury Group One will mark Haradasun's first appearance for O'Brien since his arrival from Australia, while the Ballydoyle handler will also saddle last year's Poule d'Essai des Poulains hero Astronomer Royal, who will be having his first start since October.
James Fanshawe is responsible for current ante-post favourite Cesare with the Cheveley Park Stud-owned seven-year-old bidding to follow up on last month's Listed success at Ascot.
Challenging him at the head of the market is Peter Chapple-Hyam's Tariq. A winner of three of his races last term, including the Jersey Stakes and Betfair Cup, Tariq will be joined by stable companions Al Qasi and Medicine Path.
Godolphin, meanwhile, will rely on Creachadoir with Henry Cecil set to saddle recent Sefton Stakes winner Phoenix Tower, who is bidding to complete a five-timer.
Rob Roy takes his chance for Sir Michael Stoute, while Arabian Gleam and Barshiba are still engaged for Jeremy Noseda and David Elsworth respectively.
Mick Channon's Sun Chariot Stakes heroine Majestic Roi complete the declarations.