THIS time last year Damysus was preparing for the Betfred Derby. But 12 months on the horse named after the fastest of all the giants is ready to prove speed is his most vital asset in the BoyleSports Lockinge Stakes (2.35).

Having shown a dazzling turn of foot in a winning return at Newmarket, John and Thady Gosden’s striking son of Frankel drops back to a mile, not only filling the vacancy created by the setback to stablemate Field Of Gold, but also with hopes of providing the Clarehaven team with a third straight victory in the Newbury feature.

“If you asked me a year ago if I thought he would be favourite for a Lockinge, I would have said probably not,” said Richard Brown, racing adviser for owners Wathnan Racing.

“We were looking at that mile and a quarter and mile and a half route. He got upset in the stalls in the Derby which is very unlike him as he does have a phenomenal temperament this colt.

“James [Doyle] felt he has certainly got quicker and he was impressive on his return at Newmarket. We are back to a mile and significantly up in grade so there are plenty of question marks, but he’s in good form and we’re looking forward to it.

“He certainly looked a better horse on his comeback at Newmarket. He’s not a particularly tall horse, but he’s done well and he’s a strong colt with a huge stride length. He’s definitely put plenty of muscle on over the winter.

“We’ll find out if the mile is the place for him and it’s a Lockinge so it’s going to be a big ask. But we’re hoping he can do us proud and he’s a horse who always gives his best.”