Marjorie Fife targets Ascot prize with in-form Classic Seniority

Marjorie Fife is going down a tried and tested route with Classic Seniority as her stable stalwart takes his chance in the Longines Handicap at Ascot today.

Twelve months ago, the Kyllachy gelding had two trips down south from Fife's North Yorkshire yard on successive Saturdays.

Fourth to Hawkeyethenoo in the women amateur riders' contest over seven furlongs on King George day at the Berkshire track, he ventured further down to Goodwood the next weekend and was just out of the money in the consolation race for the Stewards' Cup.

The difference 12 months on is that Classic Seniority goes on his latest jaunt in the form of his life - and a career-high mark of 96 after he backed up a Doncaster victory in the Scottish Stewards' Cup at Hamilton.

Fife has kept her promise in giving Becky Smith the mount in the Ascot race, as she did in 2016.

"Becky rode him in the same race last year and he was fourth. He was drawn on the wrong side and I promised her the ride again this year, even before he won the last twice," said the Stillington handler.

"I know he's carrying a lot of weight, but it's his last chance in a 0-95 so we've got to go.

"He does enjoy the big tracks and the hullabaloo and excitement of it all.

"Becky's a good pilot and she rides him a bit at home.

"We're going down the same path as we did last year with him.

"I know people say the Stewards' Cup and the consolation race are very close. We did it last year and he's the sort of horse that thrives on his work. He doesn't work at home at all. He just likes the bright lights and the track really.

"He did run really well there last year. He's a big horse and can take his racing, so I'm quite happy about that as long as he comes out of this race and eats up well. He'll be fine."