Chapple-Hyam holds Epsom hope

Trainer Peter Chapple-Hyam says he hopes the rain will stay at bay for his runner Arod ahead of Friday’s Investec Diomed Stakes.

Having finished second at Newmarket and a close third in last month’s Lockinge at Newbury, the four-year-old is heading to Epsom in good shape.

However, Chapple-Hyam is keeping his fingers crossed the rain will miss the Surrey racecourse ahead of the race to give Arod the best chance for success.

He said: “We don’t need any rain as he’s a proper fast ground horse, but if he gets his conditions I think he must have every chance.

“I’ve been very happy with him since Newbury. He came on with every run last year and hopefully he’ll do the same this season.

“He’s been to Epsom before, so that isn’t a worry. He’s got to go very close.”