Ribchester flying at home
Fahey's colt has been highly progressive this season but will face his toughest task yet at Ascot as he could go up against the likes of Galileo Gold, Awtaad and Minding
RICHARD Fahey believes Ribchester is a worthy favourite for the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot on Saturday week.
The Godolphin-owned colt was third to Galileo Gold in the Qipco 2000 Guineas before winning the Jersey Stakes at the Royal meeting and finishing third in the Sussex Stakes at Glorious Goodwood.
He hit the Group One target last time out in the Prix Jacques le Marois at Deauville, getting the better of Galileo Gold - who was disappointing on the day but is also set for Ascot - at the third time of asking.
Ribchester went through his paces at Fahey's Malton base on Wednesday morning, and the trainer said: "We're very happy with him and everything has gone smoothly.
"I suppose in the back of your mind you would be a little bit worried he has been on the go a long time, but he is showing no signs of that being the case.
"You never know at this time of year until they run, they do tend to lose their coats up here quicker than down south. But we have had horses winning who have gone in their coats.
"He's strengthened up physically through the year, but it is the way he has improved mentally that has impressed me.
"You'd have to say he's the classiest horse I've trained so far, and I don't often say this but I think the bookies have it right with him as favourite."
As well as Galileo Gold, potential rivals for Ribchester on Champions Day include Irish Guineas winner Awtaad and Aidan O'Brien's brilliant filly Minding.