Song aims to star in Forest
Tuesday, 20 June 2006 12:28James Fanshawe's star mare Soviet Song looks sure to attract plenty of attention when she contests the Windsor Forest Stakes at Royal Ascot tomorrow.
The popular six-year-old will be making her second racecourse appearance of the season, having finished a creditable fourth behind Peeress in the Lockinge Stakes in May.
She will be aiming to register a first success at the Royal meeting after reaching the frame in all three attempts so far. She finished third in last year's renewal of this contest, second to Refuse To Bend in the Queen Anne Stakes of 2004, and third to Russian Rhythm in the Coronation Stakes as a three-year-old.
The daughter of Marju has reportedly pleased connections in her build-up, and Matthew Budden, racing manager to owners Elite Racing Club, says confidence is high within the camp.
'Obviously we're hoping she has improved from her Newbury run, and she certainly seems to be in good order,' said Budden.
'We skipped the Group One (Queen Anne) as she doesn't have a penalty running in this race, and at the weights she looks pretty well in.
'There are a few in there with chances, especially Echelon, who has been in winning form, but we're more than hopeful,' he added.
