Pleascach just denied G1 victory on return

Godolphin nearly had a second G1 success on Arc day at Chantilly with Pleascach the short-head runner-up in the G1 Prix de l’Opera Longines over 10 furlongs on Sunday, October 2.

The four-year-old filly, who had not raced for over a year, ran superbly under Kevin Manning.

The daughter of Teofilo was slightly slow into stride but soon recovered to go second and then took over the lead after more than a quarter-mile.

Kicked on in the straight, Pleascach was headed with a furlong and a half remaining but she rallied inside the final furlong and led again before being headed just strides from the line.

The winner, Speedy Boarding, stopped the clock at 2m 2.03s on good going.

Pleascach, who has had a few setbacks this year, could head for the QIPCO British Champions Day at Ascot on October 15 for the G1 Fillies & Mares Stakes but there are other options such as the Breeders’ Cup.

Her trainer Jim Bolger commented: "She has run extremely well. I had been expecting a good performance as she has been in fine shape at home. She might not be finished for the season.

"Let’s see what His Highness Sheikh Mohammed wants to do because I wish to go in the same direction as he does."

Kevin Manning remarked: "I am delighted with her run. She got into a great rhythm and ran right to the line.

"I was particularly pleased considering the amount of time she has had away from the races.

"Pleascach is a very tough filly."

Pleascach won the G1 Tattersalls Irish 1,000 Guineas and the G1 Darley Yorkshire  Oaks in 2015.