Uphill Struggle For Winker Watson

Peter Chapple-Hyam challenged Winker Watson to bounce back from a disappointing display at Newmarket when he takes his chance in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot on Saturday.

The Piccolo colt appeared to have the world at his feet after an unbeaten juvenile campaign – but a number of minor setbacks meant he did not return to the track until July.

Peter Chapple-Hyam’s colt was well held on his return in the Prix Jean Prat and, having finished fourth in the Sussex Stakes at Goodwood next time, was a beaten favourite in a Listed event on his latest outing.

“Winker Watson is in great form but he faces a stiff task at the weekend, obviously,” said Chapple-Hyam.

“I was quite disappointed with him at Newmarket but in my heart of hearts, I knew he wasn’t really a sprinter.

“I’m sure he gets the mile, but he just comes up slightly short against the best.

“I’m very happy with him, though, so we will see how he gets on.”