Graffard eager for rain at Ascot

Francis Graffard says he is keen to see some rain ahead of Bateel’s run in the Qipco British Champions Fillies & Mares Stakes at Ascot.

The five-year-old mare has been showing real signs of progress and has another opportunity to impress on Saturday at Ascot.

Running in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe was an option for Bateel but now the runner is set to be fresh for another showdown with the highly-rated Journey.

Grafford has been pleased with Bateel behind the scenes and is now hoping for a spot of rain ahead of the run at the weekend.

“All is fine ahead of Saturday and we’re looking forward to it,” he told Press Association Sport.

“Obviously the softer the ground, the better it will be for her, but only because we know she handles it so well and some of the others might not.

“But she’s a top-class filly and she has won on good ground this season.”