Holy Roman Emperor filly Guineas bound after G3 win

The Richard Hannon-trained Maureen (3f Holy Roman Emperor-Exotic Mix, Linamix) is heading to the G1 1,000 Guineas after making a victorious seasonal comeback in the G3 Fred Darling Stakes at Newbury on Saturday.

The Colm McEvoy-bred Holy Roman Emperor filly won last season’s G3 Princess Margaret Stakes at Ascot and looks a live Classic contender after seeing off her nine rivals with ease in the seven-furlong contest.

“We weren't totally sure she would get seven furlongs as she has loads of speed. But she's back, she was very disappointing in the Cheveley Park, when her scope wasn't right,” Richard Hannon junior, assistant to his father, said to PA Sport.

“She looked like she travelled supremely well, she has loads of ability, will improve and we have to take our chance in the Guineas.”

Jockey Richard Hughes added: “Why not take your chance (in the 1,000 Guineas)? She stayed better than the rest of them there. I think the ones in front died a bit and she came and won well.

“She's always showed us that little zip, but you would have to ride her conservatively in the Guineas and have one go right at the end.”