Harbinger

Harry Herbert can barely contain his excitement as Harbinger bids for glory in an enthralling renewal of the King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot.

The Dansili colt made it three wins from three starts this term in the Hardwicke Stakes at Royal Ascot and now tests the water in Group One company for the first time in the Betfair-sponsored contest.

"It is hugely exciting. If you can't get excited about a race like this then there is something very wrong with you," said Herbert, racing manager for owners Highclere Thoroughbred Racing.

"I must say I'm disappointed Dar Re Mi is a non-runner. Lord and Lady Lloyd-Webber (owners) are friends and we've had lots of chat and banter about the race over the last few weeks.

"Now it's down to Harbinger doing his stuff. Bar one American owner who sadly can't be there, everyone else in the syndicate will be at Ascot, including the two Australians.

"I spoke to Sir Michael (Stoute) on Thursday and he reports the horse to be in great form, so it's time to do battle.

"I totally understand why Ryan (Moore, jockey) chose to ride Workforce. It was always going to be very difficult to get off a Derby winner, especially one that won so impressively in a course record time. But I'd like to think Ryan will be keeping a close eye on Harbinger."

He went on: "It's going to be an amazing day. It's a wonderful thing to have a runner in the King George and we'll try to enjoy it as much as we can. We hope and pray we have something to shout about in the home straight and what happens after that, we'll have to see.

"You do find yourself counting down the days. Until you're actually there and in the parade ring before the race, you can't rest completely easy as there are so many things that can go wrong.

"But the time has come and as as long as we're there lining up at 4.25pm on Saturday, everyone will be thrilled to bits to be competing in a race like this. The rest will all unfold and emotions will run high."