Ground Key for Art Power in Nunthorpe

King Power Racing's Art Power (Ire) (Dark Angel {Ire}), who won the G3 Lacken S. at Naas on July 4, is targeting the Aug. 21 G1 Nunthorpe S., where he would face top older sprinter Battaash (Ire) (Dark Angel {Ire}). His trainer Tim Easterby is hoping for rain, as the grey is not ending his season in the York sprinting showcase. The 3-year-old colt is riding a four-race winning streak, with a novice score at York last October kicking things off at second asking. Art Power followed up with another novice win, this time at Newcastle on June 1, and won the Palace Of Holyroodhouse H. at Royal Ascot on June 19 prior to his Lacken score.

“I'd like it to rain,” said Easterby. “We're fine over five furlongs, but I just wouldn't want to run him on very quick ground because it's not all about the Nunthorpe. He goes on fast ground, but the pace you need for that race on fast ground might be the thing. If it rains it is definitely the right way to go. The ground is key to us having a good chance, I think.”