Crystal comes good

It may not have been a vintage renewal of the Gordon Stakes but Crystal Ocean provided Sir Michael Stoute with his tenth win in the twelve furlongs event. Touted by yours truly as a Derby contender in the spring following his maiden win at Nottingham, the Sea The Stars colt ran well in both the Dante and King Edward VII Stakes at York and Royal Ascot respectively. Given a break since, he ran out a three and a half lengths winner at Goodwood powering clear inside the final furlong. There seemed to be a difference of opinion between trainer and jockey afterwards regarding the St Leger. Sir Michael seemed keen on the idea, whilst the former champion jockey isn't convinced the colt is crying out for fourteen furlongs. Regardless of whether he turns up on Town Moor next month, he is a tremendous four year old prospect who ought to be competing in races such as the Hardwicke Stakes next summer.