Charlie Appleby plots King George bid with Masar

Charlie Appleby was content with Masar’s comeback at Royal Ascot and will possibly aim to return to the Berkshire circuit next month.

The Newmarket handler has identified the King George VI And Queen Elizabeth II Stakes, as well as York’s Juddmonte International in August, as potential targets for the Godolphin-owned colt.

Masar had his first start in a year when he lined up in the Hardwicke Stakes at Royal Ascot on Saturday. He stumbled coming out of the stalls and rider James Doyle was lucky to stay on board.

He was still in contention and seemingly moving well as the field turned for home only to weaken into fifth spot, eventually finishing four and three-quarter lengths behind Defoe. Appleby felt it was a satisfactory comeback from last year’s Epsom Derby winner.

“James [Doyle] said he completely fluffed his lines and stumbled coming out of the race, but luckily he stayed on board,” said the trainer.

“They went consistent fractions but it was not mad. He over raced for a bit but I liked the way he travelled into the race. He came there as if he was going to run a race but he was entitled to run a bit tired and did for the last few furlongs.”

Appleby was happy to be back racing and looks set to come back to Ascot next month, though he’ll also considering dropping Masar back to 1m2f at York.

“He showed all of his enthusiasm which is the most important thing. If he comes out of the race fit and well then we can have a bit of fun with him,” he added.

“It’s early days. We’ve got a few options, including going here for the King George next month, but we have spoken about York and I wouldn’t mind coming back [in trip] for something like the International at York.”