Giavellotto being readied for clash with Calandagan and Rebel’s Romance

Giavellotto is aiming to add another huge prize pot to his career earnings in the Dubai Sheema Classic next week.

Marco Botti’s globetrotter benefited from an excellent Oisin Murphy ride to win the Hong Kong Vase in style last time out.

Having finished fifth of 15 in the Dubai Gold Cup last year, Giavellotto has taken his form to a new level over a mile and a half.

“We’ve not got long to go, he leaves on Saturday,” said Botti.

“He went to Southwell last Wednesday for a spin around, just to get him out of the yard, and he’s where we want him to be.

“There’s no doubt it will be a strong field, but for that prize-money it is to be expected.

“He’s definitely stronger than he’s been before and I think he’s proved he’s a mile-and-a-half horse. We’re obviously pleased to have secured Oisin, too, as he gets on well with him.

“Having Oisin in big races is a bonus and to have him on a horse he knows well is a big plus and we’re looking forward to it.”

The Newmarket handler added: “Usually he’s a good traveller and he enjoys his trips abroad.

“I think this is a stronger field than Hong Kong, you’ve got the Japanese horses, the Aga Khan’s horse (Calandagan) and Rebel’s Romance, they are all top class, so I do think it’s going to be harder to win, but he runs well fresh and we know he likes the track.

“We are definitely going to consider the Coronation Cup (at Epsom) this year, we’ll look at it after Dubai. I’d imagine we’ll stick to a mile and a half this year, but we’ll discuss it with the owners.”