Guineas route for high-ranking ‘Illusion’
J A McGrath
23 January, 2018
Godolphin’s exciting G1 Prix Marcel Boussac winner Wild Illusion is the second highest-rated filly in the 2017 European Two-Year-Old Classifications, published on Tuesday, 23 January.
Trainer Charlie Appleby reported Wild Illusion to have thrived during her winter layoff in Dubai and he declared the filly set for a busy Classic season.
“She has done well and hopefully she can progress from two to three. Physically, she is doing well. I’m very happy with her,” Appleby said.
“I have yet to finalise a racing programme for her with His Highness Sheikh Mohammed, but it is likely she will start the season in the Guineas.
“Now, whether that is in the G1 English or G1 French Guineas is to be discussed,” the trainer added.
“She’s an exciting filly. In my opinion, she has the potential to be a G1 Oaks filly. She’s got scope and looks the right type,” he added.
Wild Illusion is by Dubawi out of the Monsun mare Rhum, a stayer who won four races.
Rated 114 in the European Classifications, Wild Illusion is 1lb behind the top filly Clemmie (115).
Europe’s highest-rated juvenile in 2017 is US Navy Flag (122), winner of the G1 Middle Park Stakes and G1 Dewhurst Stakes.
