Cylinder remains favorite after Barrier Draw, Learning to Fly and King’s Gambit draw well

Godolphlin Colt Cylinder remains the Golden Slipper favorite and the one to beat in the eyes of rivals after pulling perfectly for the $5 million two-year classic at Rosehill on Saturday.

Those at the top of the market moved inside in Tuesday’s barrier draw with Cylinder in barrier three, undefeated filly Learning To Fly in four and King’s Gambit to jump from barrier seven, keeping bets relatively flat.

James Cummings-trained Cylinder, who will be chasing a $1 million bonus after wins in the Silver Slipper and Todman Stakes, remained the $3.50 favorite while stablemates Barber and Exploding drew side-by-side in barriers eight and nine, respectively.

“It’s an encouraging start, the rest is up to our riders now,” said Godolphin Bloodstock Manager Jason Walsh.

“Cylinder is a versatile runner and we’ll leave it to James [McDonald]. He has a draw that gives him every chance.”

Annabel Neasham was delighted to have a barrier that will allow Learning To Fly to play to their strengths in the first half of the field.

“It helps to have a low draw because you get the position you want. I wouldn’t trade my horse for anything else but I think Cylinder is one to beat,” said Neasham.

Peter and Paul Snowden also have three bishops who all drew within 10: Empire Of Japan (2), Don Corelone (6), and King’s Gambit (8).