Stephen Welch's NAP of the Day (18th October)
1 minute Saturday’s NAP comes in the feature race of Qipco British Champions Day, where Calandagan bids to add another major Group 1 title to his growing resume.
4:05 Ascot
Qipco Champion Stakes (Group 1)
CALANDAGAN - 5/2
The French star Calandagan has enjoyed a superb campaign under Francis-Henri Graffard, landing the King George over this very course and distance in July before showing trademark tenacity when placed in top company on both sides of the Channel.
A classy, battle-hardened performer, Calandagan is at his best when allowed to travel into a strong pace before unleashing his late surge, a setup that looks almost guaranteed here, with multiple front-runners engaged, including likely pacemakers from the Ballydoyle and Gosden camps. Last season he came agonisingly close to winning this race, finishing a half-length second on soft ground and this year’s renewal offers the perfect chance for redemption. Conditions look ideal, Mickael Barzalona knows him inside out and his recent form at a mile and a half shows he retains all his power and balance dropping back to ten furlongs.
Ombudsman, the home favourite and recent Juddmonte International hero, sets the standard on paper, but Calandagan’s course record, proven stamina and consistency at the top level make him the one most likely to give the favourite a real fight. Irish Champion Stakes winner Delacroix commands respect once more, while Almeric is the dark horse among the improvers, but experience and class count for plenty in this race and Calandagan brings both in spades.
Stylish, strong and reliable on any ground, Calandagan can go one better than last year and cement his reputation among Europe’s elite middle-distance horses. A confident choice as Saturday’s NAP of the day.
