Clive Cox has already notched the G2 Prix Robert Papin-G1 Prix Morny double with Reckless Abandon (GB) (Exchange Rate) in 2012 and the Lambourn trainer is aiming to repeat that feat with Tis Marvellous (GB) (Harbour Watch {Ire}), who landed the first leg at Maisons-Laffitte on Sunday.
The winner of two of his three starts, Tis Marvellous, who is owned, as Reckless Abandon was, by Julie Deadman and Stephen Barrow, looks set to return to France for next month's G1 Darley Prix Morny following his victory over Al Johrah (GB) (Bated Breath {GB}) on Sunday.
“He didn't surprise me, but it was quicker ground than we'd encountered with him before, so that was a little bit of an unknown and probably the reason he did just run around a small bit in the closing stages,” said the trainer. “He's very adaptable and has a lovely, laidback temperament at home. He took his time coming to himself in the spring, but he's clearly gone the right way and he's a high-class performer.”
Tis Marvellous could now face 'TDN Rising Star' Lady Aurelia (Scat Daddy) next in France, the Wesley Ward-trained filly having given a seven-length beating to Al Johrah in the G2 Queen Mary S. at Royal Ascot.
Cox continued, “Reckless Abandon had won the [G2] Norfolk previously and he was a very fast horse. I'm delighted the owners have got another very exciting prospect. I think we will be looking towards going back to France for the Morny. On the back of what he did yesterday, Deauville would be very agreeable to our plans, even though the filly could turn up from America. That would be quite an exciting prospect taking her on. As long as everything is fine, that is the intention at this stage.”
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