Artorius firms for Platinum Jubilee at Royal Ascot following jockey booking

Team Freedman announced via Twitter on Thursday morning that Spencer will pilot Artorius in the 1200m sprint on June 18.

“Jamie has a terrific record at Ascot so we look forward to having him ride our G1-winning colt,” the tweet read.

“Artorius will have two jump outs in May before he departs on June 1.”

Co-trainer Sam Freedman said Spencer put his hand up for the ride.

“Jamie was keen.

“I‘m close friends with his manager in England, working with him while I was over there. We were emailing about Artorius’ race program and he mentioned that Jamie would love to ride him,” Freedman said.

“Jamie’s record on backmarkers at Ascot over this trip is second to none, so we thought he’d definitely suit our horse.

“The way Jamie likes to ride, saving them up for one dash, and the way Artorius races – they seem like a really strong pairing.”

Artorius could be one of three Australian-trained gallopers in the race, with Waller pair Home Affairs and Nature Strip also likely to make the trip.

TAB have Home Affairs and Nature Strip at $6 and $7 respectively in their Platinum Jubilee pre-nominations market.

Artorius and Nature Strip will likely clash in a Flemington jump out towards the end of May, before Artorius boards a flight to the UK on June 1.

Provided he comes through the Jubilee in fine order, Artorius could also tackle the Group 1 Darley July Cup at Newmarket on July 9.

While already a Group 1 winner of the 2021 Blue Diamond Stakes, success in the UK would further enhance Artorius’ stud prospects.

Originally published as Artorius firms for Platinum Jubilee at Royal Ascot following jockey booking