Leading Victorian jockey Craig Williams has been confirmed to take the ride on talented three-year-old Brazen Beau should he accept into the final field of the 2015 Group 1 Diamond Jubilee Stakes (1200m) at Royal Ascot next week.
Craig Williams will partner Brazen Beau in the 2015 Diamond Jubilee Stakes. Photo: Sarah Ebbett
Brazen Beau was a standout performer for trainer Chris Waller over the 2015 Autumn Carnival; running second to Lankan Rupee in the Group 1 Lightning Stakes (1000m) first-up before posting an impressive three length win to book a ticket abroad in the Group 1 Newmarket Handicap (1200m) on March 14th.
Having been touted to be partnered by any of Damien Oliver, Frankie Dettori and last start hoop Joao Moreira, managing owner Grant Morgan is thrilled to have booked the services of Williams to ride Brazen Beau should he contest the 2015 Diamond Jubilee Stakes.
“Craig knows the horse very well having ridden him in two trials as well as a second in the Lightning Stakes,” Morgan told AAP.
“He also has extensive experience in the UK and Royal Ascot.”
Brazen Beau remains entered for the Group 1 King’s Stand Stakes (1000m) only four days prior to the 2015 Diamond Jubilee Stakes but remains likely to contest the latter option.
“Chris gets here on Thursday. I want him to make a call on a King’s Stand or Diamond Jubilee run after he sees the horse here,” Morgan said.
“There’s no point rushing decisions like this, we want to get it right.”
“Chris is leaning towards the Diamond Jubilee but there isn’t too much in it.”
Stamping his claims as one to watch through a standout two-year-old campaign during the 2014 Brisbane Winter Carnival, Brazen Beau returned to racing in similarly impressive form in spring; running fifth amongst talented competition in the Group 2 Danehill Stakes (1200m) on September 13th.
Returning to the winner’s circle in the Group 2 Roman Consul Stakes (1200m) on October 4th, the I Am Invincible colt capped his impressive year with maiden success at the highest level in the featured Group 1 Coolmore Stud Stakes (1200m).
Ladbrokes.com.au is currently offering the best 2015 Diamond Jubilee Stakes odds, for which Brazen Beau remains outright favourite at a quote of $3.60.
