Ground concern for Arod, but Drama ready for Lockinge

Arod's participation in tomorrow's Gr.1 Lockinge Stakes at Newbury will depend on ground condtions, although Endless Drama is ready to represent Qatar Racing.

Second in the Gr.1 Irish 2000 Guineas last year, four-year-old Endless Drama left Ireland yesterday bound for the Berkshire course, and on the evidence of three runs last season will have no problem with easy ground.

Arod, however, who was third in the Lockinge 12 months ago (pictured, second right), is at his best when the ground is quick. David Redvers, racing manager to Qatar Racing, told the Racing Post: "We know he is a horse that likes to hear his feet rattle and he won't run if the ground is soft. But at this time of the year the ground can dry out quickly, so we will play it by ear and make a decision on the morning of the race."

According to Newbury's website, the going today is 'soft, good to soft in places'.

Qatar Racing has two runners at the the course today, starting with the Andrew Balding-trained juvenile War Of Succession who makes his debut in a maiden (13.30). He is a first foal of the mare Rohlindi, who is closely related to a number of fast or precocious horses.

New World Power has rarity value, being a son of Japanese champion racehorse and sire Deep Impact. He was bought by Sheikh Fahad and David Redvers at the JRHA Select Sale in Hokkaido two years ago, but was unraced as a juvenile. Trained by Roger Varian, he is also making his debut today when tackling a ten-furlongs maiden (16.15) - Oisin Murphy rides both colts.

In France, Largent Du Bonheur runs in today's Gr.3 Prix Texanita (16.00) at Maisons-Laffitte for trainer Qatar Racing and trainer Mikel Delzangles, although easy ground is also a concern for him, while Restiveis in action at Dundalk (18.55) for the yard of Ger Lyons.