Charlie Appleby’s Hawkbill and Boynton set for another successful season
Last year's Eclipse winner finished fifth in France on his seasonal reappearance earlier this month and Appleby expects a truly run race to suit him better next time
CHARLIE APPLEBY has revealed the ground will play a huge role this season for his Hawkbill.
Appleby's Eclipse winner finished fifth in a Group 1 in France on his return to action earlier this month.
He is entered in a number of races, with the Tattersalls Gold Cup at the Curragh an option.
But, he will only run where the ground is suitable.
Appleby said: "It was good to get him out, but it was a typically French-run race. I felt the pace was not there and therefore it turned into a bit of a sprint and that is not his forte.
"He is entered everywhere. He is in the Tattersalls Gold Cup and that's one option and there is also the Hardwicke and races like that.
"He is, though, crying out to go back up to a mile and a half and that is very visible. He will be campaigned where the ground is suitable for him."
Appleby also had news on exciting prospect Boynton, who could have his first crack at Group 1 company in the St James's Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot.
Appleby said: "Boynton is in good order and is back in full work now. I am pleased with the way he is training. We might look towards the St James's Palace Stakes with him.
"I didn't do too much during the course of the winter. I've been conservative with him because I just feel that as we have missed the Guineas. he is a horse I don't want to push too hard too soon as he has six months of racing ahead of him."