Elmalka Poised for Newmarket Comeback in Sun Chariot Stakes Following Impressive Guineas Triumph

Elmalka is set to make her return to Newmarket, the scene of her stunning 1000 Guineas victory, with plans to compete in the Virgin Bet Sun Chariot Stakes. Trainer Roger Varian is targeting a repeat of her earlier success as the talented daughter of Kingman prepares for her next race.

Since capturing Classic Glory in May, Elmalka has continued to show promise. She finished fourth in the Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot and then matched that position in the Nassau Stakes at Goodwood, where she was just over three lengths behind the winner. Despite these losses, Varian remains optimistic, drawing encouragement from her performances and the progress she has made since her last outing.

It's a blowout in the QIPCO 1000 Guineas, ELMALKA wins at 28/1! 😮

Tony Parker's Ramatuelle gave a bold sight but lost it in the final strides and its success instead of Silvestre De Sousa & Roger Varian pic.twitter.com/zt4Bgssa0Q

— Newmarket Racecourse (@NewmarketRace) May 5, 2024

Varian is leaning towards entering Elmalka in the Sun Chariot Stakes on October 5 rather than the Matron Stakes at Leopardstown, which is part of the Irish Champions Weekend. He believes that a return to the 8-furlong distance on the autumn ground at Newmarket aligns well with her strengths and previous success.

"She's doing really well, and I couldn't be more pleased with her at the moment," Varian said. "I think the Sun Chariot Stakes at Newmarket makes the most sense. A return to the course and distance where she won the Guineas, combined with the expected autumn ground, should be ideal."

 

Varian praised Elmalka’s performances at Ascot and Goodwood, noting that although she hasn’t yet added another Group One victory to her resume, both runs were commendable. He remains confident in her ability to secure another top-level win and believes the Sun Chariot Stakes presents a perfect opportunity for her to shine again in October.