Centigrade return looks to be edging closer

Centigrade will attempt to get the mercury rising in his eagerly-anticipated return to the racetrack this autumn.

The son of Too Darn Hot showed great potential in two starts as a juvenile, beaten only a short head by Jonquil on debut before wasting little time opening his account when downing subsequent Queen’s Vase runner-up Further in impressive fashion.

Ralph Beckett’s one-time Derby hope is yet to hit the track this term after suffering an early-season injury, but the Highclere Thoroughbreds-owned colt is soon to return to Kimpton Down to begin building up to very belated seasonal reappearance.

Highclere’s Harry Herbert said: “He’s had his issues, but he’s now back into canter exercise and if all goes to plan he will have an autumn campaign.

“This is a very important horse physically and his form is outstanding. The way he has progressed physically is great and he could be a very important horse not only maybe later this season but also next season.

“If he stood up in front of you he would knock your socks off and along with (William Haggas’) Merchant, they are two very important and exciting physicals. We’re excited to get him back to Ralph’s and hopefully get him back to the racetrack later this autumn.”