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Hawkbill given Canadian aim despite German reverse

Hawkbill ridden by William Buick wins the Al Rayyan Stakes run during Al Shaqab Lockinge Day
Image: Hawkbill ridden by William Buick wins the Al Rayyan Stakes run during Al Shaqab Lockinge Day

Hawkbill set himself up for a trip to Canada when second in Germany on Sunday.

Charlie Appleby was hoping to add another Group One to the record of last year's Eclipse winner but he was reeled in by Dschingis Secret in the Grosser Preis von Berlin.

Appleby is now thinking of a North American campaign for the four-year-old.

"It was another good, solid run, you can set your watch by him," said Appleby.

"He's ultra-consistent and will head to Canada now.

"He'll more than likely run in the Northern Dancer first and if he runs a solid race that should entitle him to go for the Canadian International."

Appleby was, however, on the mark in France with Mythical Magic who remained unbeaten in the Prix Francois Boutin.

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"I was delighted, Jamie (Spencer) gave him a great ride from the front," said Appleby.

"When he got off him he said he'd be suited by a step up in trip, which concurs with what Adam (Kirby) said when he won on him first time.

"That should have set him up for the nice races in the autumn.

"He's in the Champagne Stakes at Doncaster so it makes sense to have a good look at that."

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