Connections ponder Buratino target

Coventry Stakes winner Buratino is being aimed at the Group 1 Keeneland Phoenix Stakes but connections say he could race beforehand.

Buratino impressed with victory in the Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot and the two-year-old could now contest the Keeneland Phoenix Stakes at the Curragh.

However, Charlie Johnston, representing his father and trainer Mark, says Buratino could be busy in the build up to the Group 1 contest in August.

“It’s seven weeks between the Coventry and Phoenix and the horse has thrived on his racing,” he told the Racing Post. “A Group 1 is the obvious place we want to go next, but I couldn’t rule out another run in between as he hates standing in his box.

“He’s unbeaten over six furlongs and is unbelievable over that trip – he’s a different horse. He’s got bigger and stronger with every race.”