WHEN previewing the Tattersalls Autumn Horse In Training Sale in this publication, I stated that prize money levels in Britain and Ireland mean it makes far more sense for owners to sell horses with stamina, rather than race them on, considering the high prices paid for middle-distance and staying horses.

Some questioned the strength of the European staying division when just five lined up in the Qipco British Champions Long Distance Cup last month, where 12 lengths separated the second and third, with another 17 lengths back to the fourth. The question gains further weight considering that Prix du Cadran winner Caballo De Mar started the season on a rating of 88.