Classic Winner Eldar Eldarov Thriving In Advance Of Gold Cup Bid

Thursday, May 25, 2023 | 1:52 pm

Updated: May 25, 2023 at 1:54 pm

File photo dated 15-10-2022 of Eldar Eldarov. Roger Varian is counting down the days until the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot with Eldar Eldarov following his hugely encouraging return at York last week. Issue date: Thursday May 25, 2023. PA Photo. See PA story RACING Eldarov. Photo credit should read John Walton/PA Wire.

Classic hero Eldar Eldarov (GB) (Dubawi {Ire}), who races for KHK Racing, Ltd., has exited his second-place effort in the G2 Yorkshire Cup in excellent order, and is pointing toward Royal Ascot's G1 Gold Cup.

Trained by Roger Varian, the 4-year-old entire won the G2 Queen's Vase during the iconic meeting last year, and, after a fourth-place run in the G1 Grand Prix de Paris, won the G1 St Leger in September. Unplaced in the G2 British Champions Long Distance Cup, Eldar Eldarov was conceding anywhere from two to five pounds to his rivals on the Knavesmire.

“He's great, he couldn't have taken it [the run] better and I've been delighted with him this week,” said the Newmarket handler. “His profile looks good for the Gold Cup and the St Leger form is starting to show its worth now.

“His run at York would excite anyone, whoever's camp he was in. It was just a good run, he hit the line strong, he gave weight to the field and looks like he'll improve over a bit further.

“We're looking forward to it.”