Lightning Moon Out To Strike Again

Unbeaten Lightning Moon makes his seasonal return in the six-furlong Group Two Duke Of York Clipper Logistics Stakes at York, UK, on Wednesday, May 13.

The Ed Walker-trained sprinter has made three appearances, all over the same trip, including when staying on well for a head success on soft ground in the Group Three John Guest Bengough Stakes at Ascot in October.

The four-year-old Shamardal colt was an impressive six-length winner of a Haydock Park handicap in May, 2014, and scored by a neck on his debut at Salisbury earlier the same month.

William Buick, who rode Lightning Moon to victory at Haydock Park, is in the saddle again.

Ed Walker commented: "Lightning Moon is in great nick and looks to have done very well over the winter.

"He's an unbeaten Group Three winner and this looks the logical starting point for the season.

"I think the ground will be perfect for him. We wouldn't want it very quick but I don't think there is any danger of that.

"My main concerns would be the fact that it is his first start for seven months and it's a very fast six furlongs at York, whereas Lightning Moon would probably want a stiff six furlongs or possibly further this season.

"He is in great shape and I am looking forward to getting him back on the track."

Lightning Moon, drawn 11, opposes 14 rivals including the 2013 Group One Vision.ae Middle Park Stakes victor Astaire, course and distance handicap scorer Muthmir and dual Listed winner Naadirr.

Lend A Hand (2000) and Delegator (2011) have won the Duke Of York Stakes for Godolphin.