Duke plan to be discussed

Sir Michael Stoute: Trains the promising Duke Of Firenze

Connections of Duke Of Firenze are set to discuss future running plans for the lightly-raced son of Pivotal, who currently heads the market for the William Hill Ayr Gold Cup.

The three-year-old colt, trained by Sir Michael Stoute, is vying for favouritism for the Scottish showpiece on September 22 at a top-priced 14-1.

However, he is currently some way off making the cut for the six-furlong handicap after being allotted 8st 5lb.

Duke Of Firenze, who has won two of his five starts, is seen as a long-term prospect by his owner-breeders the Cheveley Park Stud.

Dam Good

He is the first foal of Nannina, who carried the stud's colours to victory at Group One level in the 2005 Meon Valley Stud Fillies' Mile and the Coronation Stakes in 2006.

"There are no plans as yet. I'm not sure what will happen and I am going to see Sir Michael," said Cheveley Park's managing director Chris Richardson.

"We think he's a nice horse. He's obviously well-bred and we want to get the mare off to a good start.

"He's certainly got the ability, but like all Sir Michael's horses he'll take him progressively and with a view to him racing next year.

"The Ayr Gold Cup was a sensible entry anyway."