Godolphin trainer Charlie Appleby was pleased when Hurricane Lane drew two and Adayar 11 after the two well-credentialed contenders completed “simple breezes” at Moulton Paddocks in their final preparation for Sunday’s G1 Prix de ‘Arc de Triomphe.

“In the soft conditions that are likely to prevail, the draw is not a crucial factor with two horses, who have seen the mile and a half out well,” Appleby pointed out.

“On good ground, you would like to be drawn single figures, but when the ground becomes as soft as it’s likely to be, a good draw becomes less of an issue.

“It’s more a matter of where the pace of the race is going to be. There are horses who like to go forward drawn in all numbers — low, middle and outer.

“William Buick (Adayar) and James Doyle (Hurricane Lane) know the horses well. They know their strengths. When the gates open, they will know where they should be placing their horses.

“We know the soft ground is going to suit Hurricane Lane. But as a bonus, we know if it becomes a stamina-sapping Arc, he has already proven he has stamina in abundance. It’s a double positive for him,” the trainer added.

“Adayar showed as a two-year-old he likes soft ground. In the King George (at Ascot), he showed his class, as the ground was plenty quick enough that day. We are certainly happier being on soft rather than quick ground going into an Arc.

“With his draw (11), it will come down to what the pace is on the day,” he said.

Appleby reported both Frankel colts had come through their gallops today (Thursday) in excellent order. Both had their Arc partners aboard for the final breezes.

“They were simple breezes. Adayar has not missed a beat since the minor setback (prior to the Arc trials earlier this month). I couldn’t be happier with his well-being.

“As for Hurricane Lane, I’m very pleased the way he has come out of the St Leger. He’s had a busy season, so it has been a simple prep to have him ready for the Arc,” he said.

Hurricane Lane attempts to become the first Doncaster St Leger winner to triumph in the Arc in his Classic year. The Vincent O’Brien-trained Ballymoss won the St Leger in 1957 but had to wait until the following year to land the Arc.

Godolphin