Workforce to Run in Brigadier Gerard Stakes

Many racing observers have been anxiously awaiting the seasonal debut of one of the most high-profile colts to enter the handicap division – Juddmonte's Workforce (King's Best). Sir Michael Stoute's charge was originally thought to be set for debut against the New Zealand-bred powerhouse So You Think (High Chaparral) but was withdrawn late and pointed towards this Group 3 encounter instead – the Brigadier Gerard Stakes at Sandown.

The winner of the Investec Derby in 2010 and a massive Arc De Triomphe score to close the season, Workforce is just another feather in the Juddmonte cap this season. This particular contest has not been kind to favourites with only a single winner going off as the preferred selection within the past ten years.

Several major bookmakers had installed Workforce as the 5/4 betting choice in the early wagering for this one but an across the board price cut in mid-afternoon has seen Workforce tumble to an odds-on listing of 5/6.

Question marks might be floating overhead about his ability to hit off the layoff – Workforce failed last year when using the Dante Stakes as the location for his seasonal bow. Beaten by well over three lengths on the day, Workforce is said to be working sharply but the withdrawal against So You Think might prompt some punters to avoid him.

Regardless, many flat racing enthusiasts are already backing the flashy son of King's Best and there are no genuine standouts facing off against him except for Jan Vermeer (Montjeu) and the possible exception of 2010 Craven winer Elusive Pimpernel (Elusive Quality).

Jan Vermeer has been listed at an early price of 11/2 with Elusive Pimpernel trading at a 7/1 listing with most major bookmakers. The Brigadier Gerard Stakes should be a key cog in the wheel of Workforce's campaign this year – where he is expected to carve out his position as a specialist stayer.

The contest will unfold at 7:40 on Thursday at Sandown racecourse.