Ivory’s charge expected to Stake Acclaim again

Dean Ivory says Stake Acclaim can build on his impressive 2019 and is expected to head over to France soon ahead of a big summer.

The seven-year-old enjoyed a consistent year, winning in April at Newbury before going on to compete at various venues.

Ivory’s charge was third at Nottingham in August before finishing second, three-and-a-half lengths behind Spinning Memories, at Deauville a few weeks later.

A somewhat disappointing seventh followed at ParisLonchamp in September, before he came back over the Channel to conclude the campaign with a fifth in a Listed Ascot affair in October and a fourth and third at Lingfield.

Ivory is well aware of the experienced runner’s ability, especially on soft ground, and is excited for what lies ahead, with a return to French soil, where racing has recently resumed, on the agenda.

He told Sporting Life: “He’s been a super horse for us and is so consistent. He loves soft ground and we rarely run him on anything quicker these days.

“Despite having a mark of 102 I still think he retains enough ability to suggest we can win a decent race with him this season. I wouldn’t mind sending him to France where a straight, galloping track with ease in the ground would be right up his street.”