UK: Moonlight Cloud Ruled Out Of July Cup

Wednesday, 4 July 2012: Moonlight Cloud, the French sprinter who nearly ended the unbeaten record of Black Caviar, has been ruled out of the July Cup at Newmarket by trainer Freddy Head.

The filly, who ran Black Caviar to a head in the Diamond Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot, will wait for next month's Prix Maurice de Gheest in a bid to win that G1 event for the second time.

"Without doubt she won't run in the July Cup, we're keeping her for the Prix Maurice de Gheest," said Head.

Moonlight Cloud won the Prix Maurice de Gheest at Deauville last year when she beat Society Rock.

Meanwhile Hoof It is still being aimed at the July Cup despite his slightly disappointing display over seven furlongs at Newmarket last Saturday.

Mick Easterby's five-year-old could only manage fifth in the Criterion Stakes and has so far been unable to build on a fruitful last campaign.

While tests are being carried out to see if anything was amiss, he still remains in the mix for a the July Cup on Saturday week.

"His trachea wash and blood have been sent away to check for anything. We'll stick to the plan and aim him at the July Cup unless it is not in his best interests," said Easterby's son and assistant, David.

Invincible Ash is also still a possible for the big Newmarket sprint, although the ground would have to be suitable.

Mick Halford's mare was a winner at the Dubai carnival in March, beating Sole Power, and was last seen in Singapore when seventh on rain-softened ground.

"Invincible Ash is in the July Cup and we'll keep an eye on that," Halford said.

"With a mare at her stage of her career it's often worth taking a chance, but she's very ground dependant these days as she doesn't like it soft.

"She's got the option of two lesser races at home - there's the Belgrave Stakes at Fairyhouse and a race at Naas against mares and fillies only."