Trainer Jim Goldie has confirmed Caledonia on course for next month's Champion Bumper after his good run in defeat at Newbury on Saturday.

The six-year-old made an impressive racecourse debut at Kelso at the start of the season and was a creditable second on his next appearance at Ayr.

With former National Hunt jockey and now leading Flat rider Graham Lee an interesting jockey booking, Caledonia stepped up to Listed company last Saturday and was far from disgraced in finishing third. Lee will keep the ride at the Festival and Goldie is confident his charge can make his presence felt.

"He came out of the Newbury race fine and we're looking forward to Cheltenham with him. I think he'll be an interesting runner," said the Scottish trainer.

"He ran very well at Newbury, but it was horrible ground, they went no gallop early on and I think a strong pace in the Champion Bumper will suit him much better. He's a horse who stays well, he's improving with every run, and has a bit of experience now."

Perth scorer Mister Pagan could join his stable companion in the Champion Bumper, while stablemate Wyse Hill Teabags has been saved for a crack at the Coral Cup.

"I think I've had La Vecchia Scuola run there (Cheltenham Festival) in the mares' race a couple of times and that's about it," said Goldie.

"Hopefully this year we'll have Caledonia, and, possibly, Mister Pagan in the Champion Bumper. He has some decent form and he could go if he gets in.

"If he does, Graham will ride Caledonia and Lucy Alexander could ride Mister Pagan.

"Wyse Hill Teabags is going to go down for the Coral Cup. He had a problem the week before the meeting last year, so we're wrapping him in cotton wool this time. He hasn't run since September, but he is a horse who goes well fresh."

13 May 2013

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12 May 2013

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11 May 2013

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10 May 2013

Telescope focus is on Dante
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Ascot welcomes a couple of Guests