Channon hoping for Turkish delight :: Horse Racing News

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02:52 Friday 10th February 2012

Updated: 2nd September 2010

Channon hoping for Turkish delight

PA News

Mick Channon has high hopes of repeating a big-race double in Turkey this weekend.

Twelve months ago, the West Ilsley trainer landed a coup at Veliefendi with Eva's Request and Halicarnassus and the latter will again be in the firing line.

The six-year-old entire makes the long trip in an attempt to retain the Bosphorus Cup and the stable stalwart will be accompanied this time by Please Sing.

"Please Sing lines up in the Group Two Istanbul Trophy over a mile on Saturday night and has been running solid races throughout the year," said Channon.

"Although she's yet to put her head in front, I'm not put off by the task in front of her.

"She almost needs to find trouble in running to be produced late and that's made easier by the track which tends to stack the runners up on the bend before they strike for home.

"Ted Durcan rides and we'd be hopeful of a good run as she's been in fine form at home and looks an absolute picture.

"Halicarnassus is a part of the furniture and owes West Ilsley and Doric Racing nothing. He struggled at home under his penalty for winning the Bosphorus Cup last year and has had his troubles this season, but he looks great and we hope he's over his nagging problems.

"He can throw in the odd stinker but on his game he's a very talented individual and he could be involved at the business end on Sunday.

"Neil Callan will ride and let's hope he strikes up an immediate rapport with him," he told his official website, www.mickchannon.tv.