David O'Meara's popular veteran dual purpose performer Blue Bajan could well be back in action within the next fortnight as connections seriously consider letting him take his chance in the Group 2 Artemis Goodwood Cup at the 'Glorious' fixture at the end of this month, writes Elliot Slater.
Last seen finishing down the field in the Group 1 Ascot Gold Cup when finishing 10th of the 15-runner field behind the tremendously impressive Aidan O'Brien trained Fame And Glory, Blue Bajan had previously produced one of the best performances of his long and distinguished career when proving two-and-a-half lengths too good for Montaff in the Group 2 Henry II Stakes at Sandown in May. On the back of that tremendous effort connections paid to supplement their charge to the big Ascot race but the Dr John Hollowood-owned nine-year-old failed to land a blow in the big race. Those looking to bet on Glorious Goodwood shouldn't be put off by that though.
The gelded son of Montjeu seems to be enjoying a new lease of life this term and prior to his win at Sandown had only just failed to get the better of Duncan in the Group 2 Emirates Airline Yorkshire Cup. O'Meara believes he has the horse back where he wants him ahead of an intended crack at the Goodwood staying event, or alternatively he could take a trip to York a few weeks later for the Lonsdale Cup. Anyone looking for Betfair horseracing tips should keep an eye on his plans.
A winner of 12 of his 57 career starts, Blue Bajan has proved equally adept over timber as he has on the level, winning the 2008 Swinton Handicap Hurdle before being beaten only a length into third place behind Harchibald in the Grade 1 Christmas Hurdle at Kempton in December of that year. In total the Thirsk-based gelding, originally trained by Andy Turnell, has won more than £350,000 in career prize money.