Tim Easterby relishing Art Power clash with Little Big Bear in Prix Maurice de Gheest on Sunday

Tim Easterby is excited about stable star Art Power's bid for an elusive Group 1 triumph and a clash against last year's European Champion two-year-old Little Big Bear in the Arc Prix Maurice de Gheest at Deauville on Sunday.

The King Power Racing six-year-old has won two Group 2s at his beloved Curragh this year, including in the Sapphire Stakes last month, and seeks a top-level breakthrough in the 6½f contest. 

"He's going there to run on Sunday and he's in good form," Easterby said. "He's a very good horse and we feel the decision to geld him has made a big difference as he was just getting a bit too coltish. It would mean a lot to get a Group 1 with him. It should be good going to Deauville, although they are far from going to give it to him there."

Connections already have an eye on a return to the Curragh next month for the Flying Five Stakes at the Irish Champions Festival. Art Power is unbeaten in four starts at the track and would emulate fellow Northern-based sprinter Highfield Princess, who completed the Deauville and Curragh double last year if he were to be successful.

Easterby added: "The idea afterwards is that he'll go back to the Curragh as he loves the place, so fingers crossed it can all work out well from Sunday."

Art Power is one of 13 who remain in contention including the Aidan O'Brien-trained Little Big Bear, who was supplemented on Thursday and will be partnered by Ryan Moore. 

Little Big Bear must bounce back from finishing last of eight – beaten 22 lengths – behind Shaquille in the July Cup, where O'Brien felt he met interference at a crucial stage. He had previously finished second in the Commonwealth Cup.

Little Big Bear: supplemented for the Prix Maurice de GheestCredit: Caroline Norris (racingpost.com/photos)

Shock Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Stakes winner Khaadem is one of two horses who remain in contention for trainer Charlie Hills. Group 3 winner and last year's third Garrus is also engaged for the Lambourn handler.

Karl Burke could also be double-handed with Cold Case and Spycatcher, who won a Group 3 at the track by three lengths last month. Wokingham Stakes winner Saint Lawrence, classy filly Sandrine, Rohaan and Brad The Brief are other possible British contenders.

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