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NO ECLIPSE FEAR

Extra distance for Barney Roy no concern to James Doyle ahead of possible Eclipse test

Following his victory in the St James's Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot, a step up in trip for the Richard Hannon-trained Barney Roy at Sandown next month has been mooted.

Barney Roy

JAMES DOYLE feels Barney Roy would have no trouble in getting the trip should connections decide to run him in the Coral-Eclipse at Sandown.

The mile-and-a-quarter Group One contest is under consideration for the Richard Hannon-trained three-year-old following his victory in the St James's Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot.

 James Doyle celebrates as Barney Roy crosses the line
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James Doyle celebrates as Barney Roy crosses the lineCredit: PA

Despite the Godolphin-owned son of Excelebration, who finished second in the 2000 Guineas, being yet to tackle anything beyond a mile, the Gold Cup-winning rider believes the additional two furlongs would be within his range.

Doyle said: "He is a horse on the way up wherever he goes next, whether it be the Eclipse or the Jacques le Marois.

"I think they are talking about the Eclipse. His last furlong sectionals at Ascot were pretty impressive.

"He is a horse that takes time to get rolling. I think the mile and a quarter at Sandown would be fine for him. Obviously connections have to sit down and make a plan and I've not spoken to anyone about it yet."

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