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Ayr Gold Cup on the horizon for Easterby ace Sondad
By Racing TV
Last Updated: Sun 2 Aug 2026
David Easterby – joint-trainer of Sondad – remains convinced that Sondad's future remains over six furlongs, and is aiming the Stewards' Cup seventh at the Ayr Gold Cup next month.
Speaking to host Nick Luck on this week's Luck On Sunday, Easterby suggested an alternative of the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Sovereign Path Premier Handicap at Leopardstown on Irish Champions Weekend, but is yet to be convinced that he wants that seven-furlong trip.
He explained: "We've had that discussion [about him being a seven furlong or mile horse] endlessly, but Joanna [Mason] and Billy Garrity have both suggested to me that we should try seven again.
"When we've tried it before something has gone wrong that wasn't his fault.
"But if it's not broken, don't fix it – if you're good enough over six to win a Scurry Stakes, or a big handicap at Epsom, why try seven?"
Watch: Sondad was a gallant seventh in Saturday's race
Racing under a penalty for his win at Epsom, Sondad was only beaten less than three lengths in Saturday's big sprint.
"He put a valiant effort forward and I think the handicapper did a good job with the first six – it just wasn't our day," explained Easterby.
"He stumbled a little going down the hill, he has a long stride pattern for a sprinter, and we don't think the track suited him really.
"The plan now is whether to go for the Ayr Gold Cup or back to Ireland for a race on Champions Day.
"When dad and I got the horse, we got some advice from Tim Easterby who has trained most of the family, and he said they like cut in the ground.
"Every time he has had cut in the ground, he has won. We would have loved a bit of rain."
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