The Greek Freak
 

'Greek Freak' handed Golden Jubilee mission

By Lee Mottershead12.26PM 31 MAY 2009


LUCA CUMANI's "Greek Freak" sprinter Ialysos is set to tackle Royal Ascot's Golden Jubilee Stakes after flashing home to make a winning British debut at Haydock on Saturday.

An unbeaten seven-time winner in his native land, Ialysos came from an unpromising position to take the 5f Listed contest, prompting bookmakers to quote him as short as 12-1 for both the Golden Jubilee and King's Stand Stakes.

Cumani said: "I think the Golden Jubilee will probably be the more suitable race for him at Ascot as I feel he could be taken off his feet over five furlongs. I also think that William [Buick] will be offered the ride in the Golden Jubilee. He is already a big name and he rode him beautifully at Haydock by getting him into a nice rhythm."


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Cumani has definitley thrown a spanner in the works with this fella. He goes into the "could be anything" category. He looked dead a buried yesterday but once he found his stride he ran on very well and won easier than the distance suggests. A step up to six furlongs would look ideal for him.

Usually the racing in Greece is a very weak affair, and it meant little that he was unbeaten in seven starts in his native country, but yesterday he showed he is more than up to being competitive at a high level in this country.

Another cool story for the Golden Jubilee- great to see ( plus we can add him on the nicknames thread, why is it that only sprinters really get nicknames?)

While he looked good, I don't think he'll be good enough, but he is entitled to improve for that run and could surprise.

In a somewhat related topic, I rarely if ever back odds on horses but I piled into JJ the jet plane this evening on betfair at 1.7. He was a 1.4 shot in my eyes. That will put him spot on for ascot, it's just a pity the hong kong bomb is showing up :)

Don't bombs blow up?? ;)

J J just did what he needed to last night, and the stiff six furlongs at Ascot will really suit him. I think he will win, simple.

back to form today for the Greek Freak - love Lemaire - such a top class jockey!

Agreed, I wish he'd come over here. Even if it was just for a season. He'd get plenty of good rides and the punters would love him.