OUIJA BOARD (3.45) can confirm her status as Europe's top filly by landing this afternoon's Royal Ascot at York feature, the Prince of Wales' Stakes, writes Colin Woods
The high-class performer put trainer Ed Dunlop on the map with victories in the 2004 Epsom Oaks, followed by an even more famous success on the other side of the pond by landing the Breeders Cup from under the noses of the powerful Stateside home team.
Sandwiched between those two triumphs, she also finished third in the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, despite repeatedly being denied a clear run in the final three furlongs of France's top race.
"Jamie (Spencer) rode her work, but with horses such as Azamour in the line-up it's going to be tough for her on her seasonal debut," said a stable spokesman.
It's easy to understand the lack of confidence because it does look a very warm race, especially as Azamour, the 2004 St James' Palace hero, has been the subject of encouraging reports from John Oxx's enviably strong yard.
But even an on-song Azamour might have trouble dealing with Ouija Board, who almost miraculously has been kept in training, instead of taking the normal route of being retired to breeding duties after her astonishing feats during the past 12 months.
The racing world is thankful to the connections of Ouija Board for adopting that stance, so let's hope she can repay their faith.
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