Vinery sire Casino Prince is on the cusp of a career-best month at the elite level starting with Baccarat Baby and Lim’s Cruiser this Saturday.
Baccarat Baby holds a nomination for the Group 1 Tatt’s Tiara (1400m) at Eagle Farm and Lim’s Cruiser takes on a world-class sprint field in the Group 1 Diamond Jubilee Stakes (1200m) at Royal Ascot.
His other upcoming Group 1 candidate is last-start stakes winner What’s New in the Singapore Derby (1800m) on July 21.
Lim’s Cruiser (6g Casino Prince – Hope Downs by Good Journey) has settled into his new surroundings since arriving at Abington Place in Newmarket last week. “He was a bit agitated but that’s just because it was all new,” trainer Stephen Gray said. “But he’s fine now and is enjoying the wide-open training grounds.
“The trip over was like a race for him and we’ve just got to keep him ticking over and healthy. He had a blood test and it was good. And I was happy with his gallop on the weekend.”
Abington Place has been a good-luck charm for overseas visitors over the years with Royal Ascot winners such as Black Caviar, Takeover Target and Scenic Blast calling it home during their time abroad.
“There was nothing for him at home in Singapore and Mr Lim told me to have a crack,” Gray continued. “A lot of it’s down to having the nerve to have a go. If you turn up and try your best sometimes dreams come true.
“We also have the option of staying here for the July Cup at Newmarket and Lennox Stakes at Goodwood.”
Casino Prince is the most successful son of champion sire Flying Spur (Danehill) and he’s also the best-value sire based in the Hunter Valley at a $6,600 service fee. He stands at Vinery alongside All Too Hard ($27,500), Star Turn ($22,000), Headwater ($16,500), Press Statement ($16,500) and Pluck ($6,600). All fees (inc. GST).
