Racing: Classic contenders to emerge

DUBAI - It is almost a case of a lull before a storm with Easter weekend traditionally a quiet racing one for Godolphin and their European-based counterparts.

Back in England early due to the reconstruction at what used to be Nad Al Sheba racecourse, trainer Saeed Bin Surour and his team are back in Newmarket and should be primed to go at next week's Craven meeting in town.

This Saturday features the first recognised 2,000 Guineas trial at Kempton – the Easter Stakes – a race won by both Lucky Lindy (1992) and Rebel Rebel (2005) who went on to be second in the UK's first classic of the season.

The 2005 race was the last on turf and Kempton has since switched to polytrack. This year, the unbeaten Captain Ramius, on his first start for Simon Callaghan, appears to hold the most realistic classic aspirations and will be partnered by Jamie Spencer. Genuine classic contenders are more likely to appear from next week with the Newmarket meeting staging three Guineas trials next week, as well as one for the Derby.

On Wednesday, it is the Nell Gwyn Stakes (1,000 Guineas trial), as well as the European Free Handicap (both Guineas) and Feilden Stakes (Derby). The following day's Craven (2,000 Guineas) will, of course, be featured in these pages next week – along with the similar trials to be staged at Newbury on the Saturday.

Godolphin look certain to be represented but with no definitive plans as yet – though both Skanky Biscuit and Liberation are entered in the Tattersalls Timeform Trophy – and both colts hold 2,000 Guineas entries also for the first Saturday in May. Spanish Moon, beaten so narrowly on World Cup night in the Sheema Classic, will be aimed at the Yorkshire Cup.