Rhododendron heads Aidan's Oaks team

31.05

Aidan O'Brien's bid for a third consecutive Investec Oaks will be led by Rhododendron, as she featured among ten declarations for Friday's Classic at Epsom.

Having won the race for the last two years with Qualify and Minding, O'Brien's quest for the hat-trick is spearheaded by 1,000 Guineas runner-up Rhododendron, and she is odds-on to deliver with 10-11 the best price available.

Although Asking, Hydrangea and Rain Goddess were scratched on Wednesday morning, O'Brien can still call on Alluringly and outsider Pocketfullofdreams to bolster his challenge.

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Highland Reel v Idaho

31.05

Full brothers Highland Reel and Idaho head 10 declarations for Friday's Investec Coronation Cup at Epsom.

The pair, who are both trained by Aidan O'Brien, are separated by just a year and though four-year-old Idaho achieved a career highlight when winning the Great Voltigeur last term, five-year-old Highland Reel boasts four Group One successes including last year's King George and Breeders' Cup Turf.

O'Brien also fields US Army Ranger.

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…

A.P.O'Brien Season Earnings Updated

Aidan's 66 Multiple Group One Winners

Galileo Goes level with his pa on Total Progeny Group One Victories both legends now on 132

Leading Sire Tables Updated

Moore to make Derby choice on Thursday

30.05

Aidan O'Brien expects jockey Ryan Moore to leave it late before deciding on his ride in the Investec Derby at Epsom on Saturday.

The Ballydoyle handler has saddled five previous winners of the premier Classic and has seven horses in contention for this year renewal.

The shortest priced of the septet is Dee Stakes winner Cliffs Of Moher, who is disputing favouritism with some bookmakers.

O'Brien can also call upon Chester Vase one-two-three Venice Beach, Wings Of Eagles and the Anvil, as well as the first and third from the Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial, Douglas Macarthur and Capri.

Completing the trainer's team is outsider Finn McCool.

O'Brien said: "We've seven left in and they all seem to be well at the moment.

"The three from the Chester Vase are very strong possibles and the horse that won the Dee Stakes and the two from Leopardstown.

"Ryan doesn't have to make up his mind until Thursday morning. We'll go through all the horses and everything will be discussed. I wouldn't say anything is written in stone yet.

"The two horses from Leopardstown, Douglas Macarthur and Capri, ran a very good race in the Derrinstown and that's a very good trial.

"The three horses that ran in the Chester Vase all ran great races, we thought, and we were very happy with the horse in the Dee Stakes."

With O'Brien's seven amongst 20 possible runners, tactics could prove key, but O'Brien plans to leave riding plans to his jockeys.

"The lads will sort that out themselves," he said.

"Epsom is a tough track, there's a lot of twists and turns and ups and downs and it is the Derby."

5 for Ballydoyle left in the Prix Du Jockey Club

30.05

Aidan O'Brien has left five in the Qipco Prix du Jockey Club (French Derby) at the latest forfeit stage.

Orderofthegarter, Taj Mahal, Wings Of Eagles, Whitecliffsofdover, and War Decree are all possibles for the Group One showpiece at Chantilly on Sunday.

Minding on the mend

29.05

Aidan O'Brien remains hopeful brilliant filly Minding will return to competitive action as good as new before the end of the season.

The dual Classic heroine and seven-time Group One winner made a sparkling reappearance in the Mooresbridge Stakes at Naas at the start of the month and was due to line up in Sunday's Tattersalls Gold Cup at the Curragh before suffering a setback.

She will not make Royal Ascot and looks set to miss most of the summer, but O'Brien expects to have her back on track for an autumn campaign.

He said: "She has to stand in her box for a month and then she can start driving. She should be back riding in six weeks or two months.

"That's what we're hoping and it should be all fine. John Halley and Ger Kelly and John's vets are looking after her in Ballydoyle.

"They come in and see her every day so hopefully it should go well."

Clemmie could follow in her brothers footsteps and head to Royal Ascot

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29.05

Aidan O'Brien will consider a trip to Royal Ascot for the stoutly-bred Clemmie following her encouraging racecourse debut at the Curragh on Saturday.

The daughter of Galileo attracted plenty of attention prior to her introduction as she is a full-sister to this year's dual 2000 Guineas hero Churchill.

Much like her sibling did on his debut at the corresponding fixture 12 months ago, Clemmie came home strongly to finish a close third and O'Brien expects her to improve for the experience.

Churchill progressed from his initial effort to win the Chesham Stakes at the Royal meeting last season.

O'Brien said: "Ryan (Moore) was very happy with Clemmie. She was out the back early and I thought she was going to run badly looking at her early, but she finished very well.

"Churchill ran a race a little bit like that when he ran there on his debut."

Clemmie was one of two Ballydoyle bluebloods in the field, with Snowflakes - a full-sister to dual 1000 Guineas heroine Winter - finishing down the field.

"Donnacha (O'Brien) was very happy with his filly as well. It just closed up around him and he felt he went to the line on the bridle. She's obviously very smart as well," O'Brien added.

"Ascot probably will be in the equation (for both) and that was the reason for getting them out.

"We could look at the Chesham and the Albany, even though they will come on from it.

"If they go to Ascot and are green, so be it, it will be good experience for them and we'll definitely look at it."

He's Unreal

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A.P.O'Brien Year By Year European Classic Victories

Image may contain: 1 person, sunglasses and text A.P.O'Brien Year By Year Stats Update

Image may contain: 1 person, sunglasses and text A.P.O'Brien Career Stats Updated

A.P.O'Brien Top Earning Horses in Training 2017 Updated

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No Other Place Like it

Mountain Brings up Ballydoyle & Moore Treble

©Healy Racing Photos

28.05

Iron Mountain completed a good day for Aidan O'Brien, and a memorable Guineas weekend, when claiming the O'Brien's Wines Irish EBF Maiden.

Ryan Moore produced the 2/1 shot to lead a furlong-and-a-half from home in the ten furlong contest and he stuck on well in the closing stages.

The War Front colt proved too strong for the Dermot Weld-trained newcomer Europium (9/10 favourite) to record a three-and-three-quarter length win.

The winner had been fourth on his sole start at Dundalk last year.

“He stays going well and kept pulling out so he might get further than a mile-and-a-quarter,” said O'Brien.

“Ryan was very strong on him. He got a hold of him and he found plenty under pressure.

“He'll be fine at that but he won't mind stepping up in trip either.

“He could go to Ascot for a race over a mile-and-a-half or a mile-and-six. Maybe he won't need that far though as he's a War Front.”

Awesome Winter follows Churchill to Complete Guineas Double

28/05

Newmarket heroine Winter dominated her rivals to complete the double in the Tattersalls Irish 1,000 Guineas at the Curragh.

Aidan O'Brien's filly saw off stable companion and hot favourite Rhododendron to win the 1000 Guineas over the Rowley Mile three weeks ago and she was a red-hot 8/13 market-leader to follow up back on home soil in the hands of Ryan Moore.

Fellow Ballydoyle inmate Hydrangea adopted a pacesetting role early on before the Mick Halford-trained Rehana was given her head by Pat Smullen and allowed to run to the lead.

However, her effort was short-lived and Winter loomed ominously alongside racing inside the final three furlongs before scooting clear.

The result was never in doubt from there as the daughter of Galileo further extended her lead and passed the post with plenty in hand.

Roly Poly and Hydrangea boxed on to finish second and third, making it a one-two-three for O'Brien, who was winning the race for a seventh time.

You'd be delighted with her. David (Wachman) always felt she was very good. Wayne loved her a lot last year and that's why he rode her in Leopardstown,” said O'Brien.

“He was full of it at Leopardstown and was looking forward to riding her in the Guineas and she progressed very well from Leopardstown to Newmarket.

“When Wayne rode her in Newmarket he said he was going to be happy to go early as he felt she got a mile well.

“Wayne was riding her in all her work and we felt she was after progressing again but you never can be sure. She's a big filly and she's maturing physically very well.

“Ryan was very impressed with her. He said she was as easy a classic winner as you could believe.

“If everything went well you'd be thinking of the Coronation with her, because she is a good strong traveller.

“Obviously the lads will decide that but I'd imagine that will be a nice step for her next.

“She's some traveller and when Ryan let her down she just went.

“David thought she was his best two-year-old. Obviously we were looking forward to getting her and when we had Wayne coming with her it was a big advantage as he knew her inside out.

“He rides her in all her work, and Dermot rides all the canters.

“Hydrangea likes bowling along and is a great filly to have in a race as she goes along and it usually takes a lot of the messing out of the race if you have a natural leader.”

On the achievement of doing the double double in the Guineas O'Brien added:-

“It's for everyone really. Dermot rides her at home and does a great job with her. A lot of people work very hard.

“Over 20 years if I named out all the people I'd only forget people. As each horse comes along there is a team of people around them. We'd be very grateful to a lot of people.”

When asked to compare the winner to Minding O'Brien said:

“She's progressing very well and who knows. It's very hard to compare at this stage. I'd imagine she'll get a good high rating after that.

“The only difference is that Minding won a Group 1 at two.

Asked ifWinter would get a mile-and-a-half he added:-

“She might. She's out of a very fast mare but she's by Galileo and very rarely do his stock lack for stamina so it's definitely possible. She'll definitely get a mile-and-a-quarter, you'd imagine, when she's getting a mile well here.

“If everything is well and she's goes to the Coronation then you have to make your mind up where you have to go after that.

“Do you go to Goodwood for the mile-and-a-quarter or do you go to the Falmouth and those races.

“The lads will talk about it and see what they want to do.”

Moore said of the winner:-

“It was a very straight-forward race for her. Everytime I asked her she kept finding and ran all the way to the line.”

Gallinule Winner Homesman could be Ascot Bound

©Healy Racing Photos

28.05

Ballydoyle colt Homesman came with a strong late surge to land the spoils in the Airlie Stud Gallinule Stakes at the Curragh.

The winner's stable-mate Finn McCool cut out the running in the Group 3 mile contest but gave way inside the final furlong to Born To Play.

He couldn't repel the late run of Homesman, and Ryan Moore, however, as the War Front colt got on top in the closing stages for a head victory at odds of 5/1.

The winner had been no match for Irishcorrespondent when dropped back to the same trip for a conditions race at the venue last time.

“Ryan gave him a great ride. He's a big massive horse as you can see for a three-year-old and he was a little bit immature mentally but he's coming,” said O'Brien.

“That's why we put the blinkers on him just to try and get him together.

“I said he'd probably prefer better ground and a mile-and-a-quarter is probably his trip.

“We could look at the Irish Derby maybe. He got the mile well today and got a mile-and-three in Limerick.

“We could also look at the King Edward at Ascot for him. He's a big four-year-old really.”

Moore added:- "He's a fine big horse and covers the ground easily. He'll get better and there is plenty to work on."

Acapulco should be ok for Ascot Bid

Acapulco
.ealy Racing Photos28.05

Aidan O'Brien is still hoping to get Acapulco to Royal Ascot after she was forced to miss Saturday's Greenlands Stakes at the Curragh.

Having made a winning start to life with O'Brien earlier this month in a Listed race, O'Brien was keen to test her at a higher level before heading to Berkshire.

Winner of the Queen Mary in 2015 for Wesley Ward, Acapulco is in foal to champion sire Galileo.

O'Brien said: "Acapulco has a temperature but hopefully she will be all right to run at Royal Ascot."

Churchill joins the legends

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Cool Churchill Joins the greats and does the Guineas double

©Healy Racing Photos

27.05

Churchill completed the English and Irish 2000 Guineas double when landing the odds in decisive fashion in the Tattersalls Irish 2,000 Guineas at the Curragh.

Aidan O'Brien started his classic haul with Desert King in this race 20 years ago, and has now won it 11 times with Rock Of Gibraltar, Henrythenavigator and Gleneagles also completing the Guineas double.

The 4/9 favourite was a little uneasy in the market as persistent rain throughout the today turned the ground yielding to soft but the changed conditions proved no problem to the son of Galileo.

Ryan Moore sent the hot favourite past Thunder Snow just over a furlong out, and he powered home to beat that rival by two and a half lengths.

Irishcorrespondent was held up towards the rear and could never really get in a blow finishing a further four and a half lengths back in third.

O’Brien said, “He’s brave and so versatile. Ground and trip all come alike to him and he has a lovely demeanour. He saves all the petrol, and when you ask him to quicken he quickens.

“Obviously we were worried about the ground but all the lads who had ridden him were confident and especially when he’d already had a run this season.

“He’s a big powerful horse and nothing is a problem to him. Coming here we were thinking we’d go from here to Ascot and he’ll probably go for the St James Palace.

“He’d have no problem stepping up to ten furlongs later in the year. He’s so relaxed and chilled.” Churchill is odds-on across the board for the St James Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot, with Paddy Power as short as 4/6 while Boylesports go 10/11.

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Ballydoyle Classic wins

A.P.O'Brien top earning horses in training 2017 updated

A.P.O'Brien Year By Year Stats updated

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Washington DC unplaced in the Temple Stakes G2 at Haydock

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Alphabet unplaced in the 3.30 Armstrong Aggregates Sandy Lane Stakes (Group 2) at Haydock - U S Navy Flag 3rd in the 3.00 Cold Move Irish EBF Marble Hill Stakes (Listed) Sioux Nation & Mount Wellington Unplaced - Cenotaph unplaced in the 2.25 Hanlon Concrete Handicap - Clemmie 3rd in the 1.50 Equisoft Irish EBF Maiden - 6f Snowflakes Butterscotch both unplaced

All but one of my horses to follow list 2017/18 yet to be named they look an exciting bunch

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Rhododendron & Reeler lead Ballydoyle Epsom squad

27.05

Rhododendron and Enable star among 16 fillies still in contention for the Investec Oaks at Epsom on Friday.

The Aidan O'Brien-trained Rhododendron is a hot favourite to claim Classic glory at the second attempt after she failed to reel in stablemate Winter in the 1000 Guineas at Newmarket.

The Ballydoyle handler has also left in Alluringly, Asking, Hydrangea, Pocketfullofdreams and Rain Goddess at the confirmation stage as he goes in search of a seventh Oaks success.

O'Brien's son Joseph has given Intricately the option of running.

Highland Reel is one of four possible runners for Aidan O'Brien in the Investec Coronation Cup at Epsom on Friday.

The Ballydoyle handler has saddled a record seven previous winners of the mile-and-a-half Group One and appears to hold a strong hand once again.

Highland Reel won the King George at Ascot and the Breeders' Cup Turf at Santa Anita in 2016 to take his tally of top-level victories to four, but he needs to bounce back from a disappointing effort in Dubai.

The other possible O'Brien runners are Idaho, Johannes Vermeer and US Army Ranger.

With Dubai Sheema Classic winner Jack Hobbs not among the confirmations, the home team is headed by his stablemate Journey, who has been off the track since winning the British Champions Fillies & Mares Stakes at Ascot last October.

Deauville leads O'Brien's Bid for 7th tatts Gold Cup

27.05

Despite brilliant filly Minding being ruled out due to injury, Aidan O'Brien still has three representatives in the Tattersalls Gold Cup as he bids to win the Curragh prize for a record seventh time.

The Ballydoyle handler relies on recent Huxley Stakes winner Deauville, Johannes Vermeer and Somehow, who turns out just eight days after finishing fourth in the Lockinge Stakes at Newbury.

It will be Somehow's fourth appearance in less than a month.

O'Brien said: "Deauville did it nicely in Chester and is in good form. If the ground is good, that will suit him well. He doesn't want to go further than a mile and a quarter, but the trip is fine for him.

"Johannes Vermeer had a lovely run in Naas and has come forward since then. We were going to run Somehow in the Group Two fillies' race (Lanwades Stud Stakes), but when Minding came out we said we would let her take her chance.

"A mile and a quarter is a good trip for her. She has taken her races very well."

Yucatan put on ice until the Autumn

27.05

Aidan O'Brien has reduced his Investec Derby team by one after ruling Yucatan out of the Epsom Classic.

The Galileo colt ended last season finishing runner-up to Rivet in the Racing Post Trophy, and his two runs this year have seen him take third in the Ballysax Stakes and second in the Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial.

He was as short as 12-1 in the ante-post market on the blue riband, but O'Brien said: "Yucatan won't be going to the Derby. We are going to leave him until the autumn, and we think he is going to be a lovely horse next year. We are just going to ease back off him for the moment."

Image result for order of st george horse

26.05

Order Of St George won the feature Listed Seamus & Rosemary McGrath Saval Beg Stakes for the second year in-a-row, completing a quick double for Aidan O'Brien and Ryan Moore.

Disappointingly beaten when odds-on on his last two starts, the son of Galileo was expected to get back to winning ways this evening as he went off the 4/11 market leader (was available at 8/13 last night).

Settled in fourth, the five-year-old entire was pushed along to challenge on the outer from over two furlongs out.

He got to the front with a furlong left to race, and kept on well from there to score by two and a quarter lengths.

Twilight Payment finished second under Kevin Manning for Jim Bolger at 4/1, while Motherland was another three and three parts of a length back in third.

Paddy Power go 5/4 (from 6/4) about Order Of St George to retain the Ascot Gold Cup, while Twilight Payment is now available at 25s from 20s.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee

©Healy Racing Photos

A.P.O'Brien Season Earnings Updated

Auckland off the mark at Leopardstown

26.05

The Aidan O'Brien trained Auckland got off the mark on his fifth start as he took the Cliff At Lyons Maiden.

A disappointing sixth on his handicap debut at Killarney, the son of Galileo was encountering quick ground for the first time today.

Available at 9/4 last night, he was well-supported, opening on-course at 11/8 before going off the clear 5/4 favourite under Ryan Moore.

Prominent in the early stages he was soon settled in fourth. He was pushed along to close with over two furlongs to race, getting to the front with over a furlong to go, keeping on under pressure to score by half a length.

Newcomer Sin Sin (14/1) finished out her race well to take second under Daniel Redmond for Jim Bolger, while Makamamia (9s to 7s) was another length and a half back in third with Conor Hoban in the saddle for Andy Oliver.

Aidan O'Brien said afterwards: "He was very slow to learn and we were trying to get him to relax and do things right. The last day at Killarney was really the first time he relaxed and raced properly. Hopefully he's on an upward curve now.

"Nice ground suits him well, and Ryan felt the mile suited him. I think he might get a mile and a quarter in time, and he'll probably go back for a handicap next."

The winner is a half-brother to Meow, who is of course the dam of Churchill.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee

©Healy Racing Photos

26.05

Ballydoyle trio on Curragh gold trail

Aidan O'Brien will fire a three-pronged assault at the Tattersalls Gold Cup in a bid to win the Group One prize for a record seventh time at the Curragh on Sunday.

Brilliant filly Minding was due to be O'Brien's main hope for this year's renewal, but a setback has ruled her out of the race.

The Ballydoyle handler instead relies upon recent Huxley Stakes winner Deauville, Johannes Vermeer and Somehow, who turns out just eight days after finishing fourth in the Lockinge Stakes at Newbury.

It will be Somehow's fourth appearance in less than a month.

Roger Charlton, who won the Tattersalls Gold Cup twice with Al Kazeem (2013 and 2015) is represented by Group One scorer Decorated Knight, the only British representative in the eight-strong field.

Success Days was considered unlikely to run earlier in the week but he has now been declared by Ken Condon.

The Jim Bolger-trained Moonlight Magic, Joseph O'Brien's Reckless Gold and Gentil J from Harry Rogers' stable complete the line-up.

26.05

Winter spearheads Aidan's 1000 Guineas squad on Sunday

Winter will face seven rivals when she bids to complete a Classic double in the Tattersalls Irish 1,000 Guineas at the Curragh on Sunday.

The daughter of Galileo saw off stable companion and hot favourite Rhododendron to clinch the 1000 Guineas at Newmarket three weeks ago and will be a warm order to follow up back on home turf and provide trainer Aidan O'Brien with a seventh victory in this Group One contest.

O'Brien also saddles Hydrangea, who is fitted with cheekpieces after disappointing at Newmarket, Asking and Roly Poly.

Joseph O'Brien sends Intricately into battle, but last season's Moyglare Stud Stakes heroine will also need to raise her game after failing to fire at Newmarket.

Rehana is a major contender for Mick Halford after she was impressive in the Athasi Stakes at Naas at the start of the month.

Kevin Prendergast is represented by Aneen, who has not been seen since bolting up in a Curragh maiden last October.

Jim Bolger's recent 1,000 Guineas Trial winner Bean Feasa completes the line-up.

26.05

Minding out till the Autumn

Minding, long odds-on favourite for the Group 1 Tattersalls Gold Cup at the Curragh on Sunday, has met with a setback and will be out of action until the autumn.

Speaking on Friday morning, her trainer Aidan O'Brien said: "Unfortunately, Minding has had a setback and won't be running in the Tattersalls Gold Cup. She will also miss Royal Ascot and won't be running again for a few months. We're now looking at an autumn campaign for her."

A seven-time Group 1 winner, Minding enjoyed a hugely successful 2016 campaign, winning the Qipco 1,000 Guineas, the Investec Oaks, the Pretty Polly Stakes, the Nassau Stakes and the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes. She made a winning reappearance at Naas earlier this month when landing the Group 2 Mooresbridge Stakes.

She is the second high profile Ballydoyle filly to miss out on the summer action following the news early this week that Seventh Heaven, winner of the Irish Oaks and the Yorkshire Oaks last season and the Jockey Club Stakes at Newmarket this month, had met with a setback and would not run again until the autumn.

We at the AOBFS wish both fillies a speedy recovery and hope that they can recapture their winning ways upon their return.

Odds on Wisconsin a maiden no more

Healey racing photos

25.05

When you've got a Ballydoyle colt by Deep Impact out of Peeping Fawn expectations are going to be sky high. Now a three-year-old the animal in question is called Wisconsin and he brought up a Tipperary double for connections when justifying odds of 4/9 in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden.

Seamie Heffernan was on the opening Aidan O'Brien winner, Murillo, whilst it was daughter Ana that took the reins of the Curragh second placer from 12 days back, Wisconsin.

He took over from the front-running Lucknow under two furlongs out. Possibly getting a little lonely then inside the last, Wisconsin held on by three parts of a length from Steel Prince.

They left Harrana seven lengths back in third.

"He stays very well and learned plenty from his first run. He keeps galloping and is very genuine," was the winning rider's reaction.

"He got a lovely lead, we went a nice gallop and I think he'll progress and even stay further in time.

"I know he has an entry in Ascot. Whether he goes there or not or even has a run in between, I don't know. We'll see what happens."

(TW & EM)

Murillo off the mark at TIP

Healey racing photos

25.05

You had to feel for connections and backers of odds on favourite Wolfofbaggotstreet in the opening Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden (Plus 10 Race) at Tipperary. In the end he was trying to bite off a fair bit more than he could chew against the winner, Murillo.

Through the five furlongs Wolfofbaggotstreet did everything very professionally and looked like he could be heading for success when going for home over a furlong out under Pat Smullen.

As it turned out though Johnny Murtagh's Equiano gelding appears to be have been attempting to beat a horse from a different level.

Ballydoyle's Murillo, a half million dollar foal, changed gear in impressive style inside the last under Seamie Heffernan to slam Wolfofbaggotstreet and the rest by three lengths and more.

"I thought he was a danger to my horse (U S Navy Flag, finished third) going to the Curragh the last day but they ran green and Ana (O'Brien) said he ran better than where he finished," reported Heffernan.

"I didn't have to give him a belt - he was another one I didn't have to give a belt to.

"He is a big scopey lad and I'd say he'll be heading to Ascot. He showed us a little bit at home and to be honest he ran so bad at the Curragh, it just wasn't his run but he did it well today."

(TW & EM)

Wayne Lordan rides DC and Alphabet at haydock on Saturday

Rostropovich Half Bro to Zoffany (Frankel) is to be ridden by Ryan Moore at Leopardstown tomorrow he also rides Auckland & OOSG on the card

Washington DC and Alphabet go to Haydock on saturday, No ACAPULCO as suspected she could run at Curragh or straight to Ascot

Churchill Lancaster Bomber & Spirit of Valor all run in the Irish 2,000 Guineas (Group1) Jockey info to follow.

Berkley Square (Homecoming Queen) Rostropovich Half Brother to Zoffany (by Frankel) - Coat for arms (Seventh Heavens brother) all set for debuts tomorrow & Order of st George is out again.

DC in Temple Bid

25.05

Washington DC features among the 12 declarations for the Armstrong Aggregates Temple Stakes at Haydock on Saturday.

Aidan O'Brien's charge narrowly lost out to Marsha when second in the Palace House Stakes at Newmarket earlier in the month and will bid to go one better in the Group Two over five furlongs, meaning stablemate Acapulco misses out.

The home challenged is headed by dual Group One winner Quiet Reflection

Trainer Karl Burke had expressed some concerns about the current warm spell of weather earlier in the week as his filly needs a bit of cut in the ground.

But with showers forecast, he has decided to give his stable star the option.

Burke is keeping his fingers firmly crossed the current weather forecast is correct and admitted it is likely to be a late call on the filly's participation.

He said: "Heavy showers are forecast for Saturday and I'm told the ground was in great shape on Thursday morning, but it is a red-hot day so it's going to dry up a bit more you would have thought.

"I think it will be a late call and we'll see how the ground is on Saturday."

Robert Cowell will be doubled-handed with Encore D'Or and Goldream, with the Clive Cox-trained Priceless and John Gosden's Waady other notable entries.

Popular veteran Take Cover represents David Griffiths, while Alpha Delphini, Cotai Glory, Final Venture, Kachy and Thesme complete the line-up.

George flies the Ballydoyle flag in Saval Beg

25.05

Order Of St George leads the way as just five runners go to post for the Seamus & Rosemary McGrath Memorial Saval Beg Stakes at Leopardstown on Friday.

Aidan O'Brien's charge won the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot last year, claiming this Listed heat along the way, and will be having his second outing this term after finishing second in the Vintage Crop Stakes at Navan last month.

The Jim Bolger-trained Twilight Payment was third in that Group Three race and takes his chance again, while Joseph O'Brien runs Motherland, who won two of his three starts last year and returned with a second at Tipperary.

Stars Over The Sea failed to hit the mark in two hurdles outings for Henry de Bromhead but returns to the Flat.

Pat Shanahan's Musselburgh winner Carbon Dating completes the field.

Churchill faces five in double Guineas bid

25.05

Churchill will face just five rivals as he bids for a Classic double in the Tattersalls Irish 2,000 Guineas at the Curragh on Saturday.

Aidan O'Brien's charge won the British version at the start of the month and he will once again be joined by stablemates Lancaster Bomber and Spirit Of Valor, who finished fourth and eighth respectively at Newmarket.

Michael Halford's Irishcorrespondent is unbeaten in two starts this year and takes a steep hike to Group One level, while Ger Lyons' Glastonbury Song is another to jump in class after winning at Dundalk last month.

Godolphin runner Thunder Snow completes the line-up and is on a retrieval mission after a disappointing performance in the Kentucky Derby, when he was pulled up after bucking through the early strides of the race.

25.05

Leading Sires Tables Updated

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23.05.17

Winter faces 13 rivals in the 1000 Guineas

Aidan O'Brien is responsible for eight of the 13 remaining fillies in the Tattersalls Irish 1,000 Guineas at the Curragh on Sunday.

Winter spearheads the Ballydoyle team, having already won the 1000 Guineas at Newmarket.

Newmarket runner-up Rhododendron has also been left in the race, but O'Brien said she is more likely to head for the Oaks at Epsom.

The Ballydoyle handler could also run Alluringly, Asking, Elizabeth Browning, Hydrangea, Pocketfullofdreams and Roly Poly.

Joseph O'Brien's Intricately was a Group One winner last year but disappointed at Newmarket.

O'Brien, who turned 24 on Tuesday, said: "She won the Moyglare last season at the Curragh so hopefully she can come back to form there on Sunday and I'm happy with her."

Kevin Prendergast is set to be represented by impressive Curragh maiden winner Aneen.

Dermot Weld could run Making Light, while Jim Bolger has Bean Feasa engaged in the Godolphin silks.

Mick Halford has the option of saddling the Aga Khan-owned Rehana, winner of the Athasi Stakes at Naas.

23.05.17

Churchill faces 8 rivals in the 2000 Guineas

Churchill will face a maximum of eight rivals in Saturday's Tattersalls Irish 2,000 Guineas at the Curragh.

Aidan O'Brien is responsible for five of those, meaning just three trainers could field opponents against the impressive Churchill, who is bidding for a Guineas double after winning at Newmarket.

O'Brien could also run Lancaster Bomber, who was fourth at Newmarket, Orderofthegarter, fifth in the French Guineas, Pipes Of Peace, Spirit Of Valor and War Decree.

However, the only unbeaten horse in the field is not trained by O'Brien but by Michael Halford.

His Irishcorrespondent may have been unraced at two, but he has created a huge impression in winning both his starts this season.

"He's done everything right, he was very impressive in his maiden and stepped up on that the last day," Halford told At The Races.

"Obviously there's more required here, but I think he's entitled to take his chance.

"Churchill obviously sets the standard, but he's well and I'm looking forward to him."

The only other two possibles are the Ger Lyons-trained Glastonbury Song, a winner at Dundalk last month, and Saeed bin Suroor's Thunder Snow.

He hit the headlines for all the wrong reasons after bucking coming out of the stalls in the Kentucky Derby and being pulled up.

Paddy Power have priced the races up as follows: 1/3 Churchill; 5 Irishcorrespondent, 10 Thunder Snow; 12 Lancaster Bomber; 14 War Decree; 16 Orderofthegarter; 20 Glastonbury Song & Spirit Of Valor; 50 Pipes Of Peace.

23.05.17

Seventh Heaven out until the autumn

Seventh Heaven is unlikely to run until the autumn after suffering a setback.

The Aidan O'Brien-trained filly had been among the leading lights for the Investec Coronation Cup at Epsom next week following her five-length stroll in the Jockey Club Stakes at Newmarket earlier this month.

However, she has been ruled out, with O'Brien expecting her to be sidelined for a lengthy period.

Last year's King George and Breeders' Cup Turf hero Highland Reel and his brother Idaho, who was third in the 2016 Derby, are instead likely to run in the Coronation Cup.

O'Brien said: "Seventh Heaven had a little bit of a setback so she probably won't be back out until the autumn.

"We are thinking that the brothers might go there (Highland Reel and Idaho)."

22.05.17

Acapulco In Temple Contention

O'Brien's Acapulco is one of 13 sprinters left in Saturday's Armstrong Aggregates Temple Stakes at Haydock.

Winner of the Queen Mary for Wesley Ward two years ago, she was a cosy winner of a Listed race on her first start for her new stable.

O'Brien could also run Washington DC, beaten narrowly by Marsha in the Palace House last time out.

Churchill to bypass Epsom Derby in double Guineas bid

22.05

Churchill appears firmly on course to bid for a Classic double in the Tattersalls Irish 2,000 Guineas at the Curragh on Saturday.

The Aidan O'Brien-trained colt was made favourite for the Investec Derby at Epsom after his victory in the Qipco 2000 Guineas at Newmarket, but is almost certain to stay at a mile for now.

O'Brien said: "It looks like Churchill will go for the Irish Guineas, and Lancaster Bomber (fourth at Newmarket) could go with him. I'd say it's very unlikely that Churchill will go for the Derby."

O'Brien has dominated the Classic trial picture over the last few weeks, and added of his Derby squad: "There are seven horses very strongly in the picture at the moment for the Derby.

"The three Leopardstown (Derby Trial) horses (Douglas Macarthur, Yucantan and Capri), the three Chester Vase horses (Venice Beach, Wings Of Eagle and The Anvil) and the Dee Stakes horse (Cliffs Of Moher)."

O'Brien also had news of 1000 Guineas winner Winter, confirming her on course for the Curragh equivalent on Sunday: "Winter and Hydrangea are likely to go for the 1,000 Guineas. That's the way things look at the moment.

"Rhododendron (second at Newmarket) is going to go straight for the Oaks (at Epsom).

"The plan is that Minding will go for the Tattersalls Gold Cup."

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A.P.O'Brien Career Stats Updated

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Caravaggio Dazzles on Naas return

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May 21

Caravaggio ran out a facile winner of the EMS Copiers Lacken Stakes at Naas to maintain his unbeaten record.

Aidan O'Brien's three-year-old was unbeaten in four starts as a juvenile and had little difficulty in extending that sequence, despite carrying a penalty in the Group Three.

Held-up towards the rear of the six strong field in the early stages, jockey Ryan Moore asked for an effort fully two furlongs from home.

The response was not instantaneous but the son of Scat Daddy gradually found his stride and quickened right away from the field inside the final furlong to record an impressive success.

It was Caravaggio's first start in 287 days and Sky Bet cut him to 7/4 favourite from 3/1 for the Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot following his four and three-quarter lengths defeat of Psychedelic Funk.

Sky Bet's Racing PR Manager Michael Shinners said: "He was an outstanding juvenile who produced a stunning display to win the Coventry Stakes last season.

"It would be no surprise to see him claim a second Royal Ascot success in the Commonwealth Cup next month where he's clearly the one to beat. He's our 7/4 favourite from 3/1 and could easily develop into the best sprinter that Aidan O'Brien has handled since the likes of Stravinsky and Mozart."

O'Brien said of Caravaggio, who was sticking at sprint trips rather than trying a mile in a 2000 Guineas: "He's an unbelievably quick horse.

"We said that we would come here and if everything went well we would go to Ascot for the Commonwealth Cup.

"I've never seen a quicker horse and that's why we went this way with him. He's showed nothing to say he wouldn't get a mile.

"We worked him seven furlongs and the petrol gauge never shifted, but I was afraid that he was so quick that it would be the wrong thing to do.

"We could train him for a mile and go back, but we didn't want to lose the brilliance.

"He was carrying plenty and was a good bit above what he was last year. A long way above. You couldn't be happier."

Sky Bet also make Caravaggio 7/2 (from 7s) for the July Cup at Newmarket and 8/1 (from 14s) for the King's Stand Stakes at Royal Ascot where he would have to take on his elders.

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Actress 2nd in the 15:45 Coolmore Stud Irish EBF Fillies' Sprint Stakes (Listed Race) - Dali unplaced in the 15:15 Coolmore War Command Rochestown Stakes (Listed) - Whitecliffsofdover 3rd in the 14:40 Owenstown Stud Stakes (Listed) - Old Time Waltz 4th in the 14:05 Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Maiden All At Naas

A Huge day ahead for this fella seems a long time ago since we seen him - Beautifully captured by David Betts and edited by me

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Spanish Steps 3rd on comeback in 16:45 Mathews Agri Maiden good run - Finn McCool 3rd Belgravia 4th in the 16:10 EBF Yeats Stakes (Listed) all at Navan

Somehow finished 4th in the Lockinge Stakes at Newbury pictured below getting readied by Aidan

15 from Ballydoyle entered in the keeneland Phoenix Stakes including 6 Galileo's including Winter & Churchill's sisters

Ballydoyle duo to battle out Yeats Stakes

20.01

The Irish Stallion Farms EBF Yeats Stakes is the feature race at Navan on Saturday and Aidan O'Brien looks to hold a typically strong hand with Belgravia and Finn McCool representing team Ballydoyle.

The latter broke his maiden here back in October and has been highly tried since, but the former impressed when landing a Leopardstown maiden recently and he looks to be making the most significant progress.

Haripour, a half-brother to last year's Epsom Derby hero Harzand, has yet to set the world alight but is surely capable of better, while Gowran Park debut scorer Naughty Or Nice, the only filly in the line-up, steps up in class for John Oxx and must be respected.

There is a decent prize on offer in the navanracecourse.ie Handicap and old favourite Maarek could be worth considering from the top of the weights following a good run in Listed company here last time.

Ostatnia is likely to prove a real threat if getting a strong pace to chase down, while there should be plenty more to come from lightly-raced Naas winner Miss Power.

Racing gets underway with the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden at 2:25 and Caesar's Comet is particularly interesting having made an introduction full of promise when finishing fourth on his Dundalk debut back in January.

Juveniles take centre stage in the subsequent Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden and plenty will be expected of Guessthebill as he bids to build on his Naas debut second last month.

Johnny Murtagh's charge only narrowly missed out on that occasion and might just have too many guns for Himmah, who caught the eye on his first start here recently.

Clongowes bids to finally break his duck in the Matthews Agri Maiden but his losing run is mounting up, while Bainne will need to improve again to cope with the 4lb rise incurred for her narrow Curragh triumph.

Venuezuela off the mark at Cork

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©Healy Racing Photos

19.05

Champion Trainer Aidan O’Brien and retained jockey Seamus Heffernan combined for a maidens double at Cork today as Venezuala mae it third time lucky in the Buy Online @corkracecourse.ie Maiden.

Heffernan kept the son of Galileo close to the pace throughout, moved him to the front over a furlong out before the pair eventually scored a two lengths win over Moritzburg.

Newcomer Belle Boyd was a late market-mover, having been backed from 8/1 on track in to 4/1 at the off and eventually finished well for a never-nearer third placing.

O’Brien and Heffernan were earlier successful with Sioux Nation, which himself was winning on his third outing, in the opening five furlong maiden.

By Tom Weekes

Walk in the Park for Sioux

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19.05

Sioux Nation's form figures now read 321 after his romp at odds of 2/11 in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden (Plus 10 Race) at Cork.

There was encouragement from Michael Halford's first-timer, Yulong Warrior, but this time Sioux Nation was on another level. The Ballydoyle Scat Daddy colt delivered by three and three parts of a length in the hands of Seamie Heffernan.

"He's massive and possibly still immature but I like the feel he gave me. He's improving and that's the way you want them," said Heffernan.

19.05

Caravaggio makes his long awaited return on Sunday

The unbeaten Caravaggio makes his eagerly-awaited reappearance in the EMS Copiers Lacken Stakes at Naas on Sunday.

The Aidan O'Brien-trained colt is among a field of nine declared for the Group Three over six furlongs as he seeks to take his 100 per cent to five.

Caravaggio has not been seen since winning the Group One Phoenix Stakes at the Curragh in August.

The son of Scat Daddy holds a host of big-race entries, ranging from the Irish 2,000 Guineas to the Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot, for which he is currently ante-post favourite at around 4-1.

O'Brien is also represented by Pedestal, who has an even longer absence to overcome.

His last race came at Royal Ascot where he was third in the Windsor Castle Stakes.

Leading the opposition is Jessica Harrington's Khukri, who got his 2017 campaign off to a flying start with victory in the Listed Power Stakes at Navan four weeks ago.

Harrington also saddles Tinder, with the line-up completed by Mister Trader, Mr Scarlet, Psychedelic Funk, Gorane and Virtudes.

Timeform Global Rankings European Division Ballydoyle Spotlight & News 2017 Update

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Hit It a Bomb Shuttling to Argentina

19.05

Spendthrift Farm changed the shuttling plans for its first-year stallion Hit It a Bomb , who will now be headed to Haras Firmamento in Argentina for the Southern Hemisphere breeding season instead of Spendthrift's operation in Australia.

"We did not anticipate such strong late interest in shuttling Hit It a Bomb, and an unforeseen opportunity came about that was too good to turn down," said B. Wayne Hughes, owner of Spendthrift. "It was a difficult business decision to send him to South America, and we regret any confusion this may cause.

"I want to make it clear that we will continue to be committed to bolstering our stallion operation at Spendthrift Australia," Hughes continued. "The first key to having mutual success for Spendthrift, the stallion, and the breeder is to make sure we are doing our job by having the right horses in the right places. I believe we will have a lot of the right horses coming to Spendthrift Australia in the future."

Hit It a Bomb, a son of War Front —Liscanna, by Sadler's Wells, won the 2015 Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf (G1T) on his way to earning $626,476 in seven lifetime starts. The young stallion was a homebred racing for Evelyn Stockwell and is a full brother to grade 1 winner Brave Anna.

Haras Firmamento has been the leading breeder in Argentina 15 times since 2000, according to the farm's website. The farm also stands group winner Van Nistlerooy; Seattle Fitz, who has sired three group 1 winners in Argentina; Cityscape; Equal Stripes; and, Sol Planet.

Ned Toffey, general manager of Spendthrift Farm, said the strong support Hit It a Bomb would received from a high caliber breeder like Hara Firmamento's helped seal the deal, although he said Hit It a Bomb would have been a good fit in Australia, too, because he's by War Front and was an undefeated, graded stakes winner at 2.

"We had one reservation that opened the door to this opportunity," Toffey said. "Australian breeders like a lot bone in a horse, almost a Quarter Horse body type. Hit It a Bomb is a beautiful horse but he is not that type."

Toffey said Hit It a Bomb will return to Spendthrift Farm near Lexington for 2018 breeding season. The stallion stands for an advertised fee of $7,000.

Irish 1000 & 2000 Guineas next weekend will G-Boss be adding to his classic tally?

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18.05.17

Somehow Among Nine For The Lockinge

Somehow is one of nine declarations for the Al Shaqab Lockinge Stakes at Newbury on Saturday.

Aidan O'Brien has long nominated the Dahlia Stakes heroine for this assignment and she is now set to back up to Group One level as she goes in pursuit of a hat-trick.

Minding among 19 Ballydoyle Entries for Coral Eclipse

17.05

Multiple Group One winner Minding has been installed as the 4-1 favourite by race sponsors Coral for this year's Eclipse.

The four-year-old, winner of both last year's English 1000 Guineas and Oaks, is one of 19 entries for trainer Aidan O'Brien in the 10-furlong contest at Sandown on July 8th.

Other stand out names among the Ballydoyle handler's list of possible runners include 2000 Guineas hero Churchill, 1000 Guineas winner Winter and last year's Breeders' Cup Turf victor Highland Reel.

While O'Brien-trained runners dominate the list of 66 entries for the race, there are number of notable names from other yards that have been put forward.

Dubai Sheema Classic winner Jack Hobbs is one of seven for trainer John Gosden, while Sir Michael Stoute, who has won the race five times, is responsible for three entries, including Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Turf heroine Queen's Trust.

Last year's winner Hawkbill spearheads a list of seven potential runners for trainer Charlie Appleby.

New Coolmore posters - Fastnet Rock & Declaration of War

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From Aidan "It's Likely that two will run in the Dante. No names. 1000 Guineas second Rhododendron to run in the oaks. Winter likely to run at the Curragh in Irish 1000 Guineas. Churchill DERBY decision due this week".

Alice Springs & Minding removed from the Lockinge on Saturday Somehow and Cougar Mountain remain in the race

From this mornings Racing Post Front Cover Acapulco off to flyer

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British Trainers Championship Update

A.P.O'Brien Season Earnings Update

Leading Sires Tables Update

Ryan's thoughts on the controversial decision to ride Peace Envoy in the French Guineas today and his thoughts on Sir John Lavery.

"A lot of people would have expected me to ride Orderofthegarter here after his two impressive recent wins, but I have never ridden the horse before - Seamie rode him to win in really good style at Leopardstown last time - so I was happy to be guided by Aidan". Sir John Lavery "He was only just ready, he got a bit tired; I wouldn't lose faith in him."

Perfect Start for Acapulco

14.05

Acapulco made the perfect start to her career with Aidan O'Brien, as she took the feature at the Curragh this afternoon, the Listed Sole Power Sprint Stakes.

The daughter of Scat Daddy, who was a brilliant winner of the Queen Mary Stakes at Royal Ascot in 2015, won twice in her native America last year, finishing sixth on her most recent effort at Santa Anita in November.

Now in-foal to Galileo and fitted with a hood, she was sent off the 11/8 favourite today, with Donnacha O'Brien in the saddle.

Settled in mid-division, she was pushed along with under two furlongs to race, and hit the front inside the final furlong, keeping on well from there to score by half a length.

Ardhoomey (7/2) ran on well to take second under Colin Keane for Ger Lyons, while Willytheconqueror (12/1) was another half a length back in third under Martin Dwyer for William Muir.

Donnacha O'Brien said afterwards: "At home we were trying to get her to relax and that's what the hood was all about. She was a bit lazy today but when I gave her a squeeze she quickened up nicely.

"I think when we take the hood off her she'll step up again. It's a lovely start.

"It was perfect for her first day, let her relax and enjoy it, so it worked."

Aidan and Donnacha O'Brien were of course completing a double on the card, having earlier took the opener with Actress.

Paddy Power go 4/1 from 6's about Acapulco for the King's Stand Stakes at Royal Ascot.

Additional reporting by Gary Carson

Staring role for Actress at the Curragh

14.05

Actress (1/3fav) justified her short odds, as she took the opener at the Curragh, the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Maiden.

A good second to the exciting Alpha Centauri on her debut at Naas earlier this month, the Aidan O'Brien trained bay was expected to go one place better this afternoon.

Settled behind the leaders in fourth, she improved to lead from the furlong pole and was pushed out from there to score by a comfortable three parts of a length under Donnacha O'Brien.

Yolo Star finished second at 14/1 under Niall McCullagh for Johnny Murtagh, while Aidan O'Brien also saddled the third horse home, and that was Could It Be Love (5/1) with Colm O'Donoghue in the saddle, another three parts of a length back.

The winning rider said afterwards: "Probably six furlongs would suit her even better but the race was here for her and she's done it very nicely.

"I don't know if she'd run again but I suppose Ascot would have to be on the cards now."

Additional reporting by Gary Carson

A.P.O'Brien Year By Year Stats Updated - 600 group Race Wins Up

Order Ready For French Guineas

13.05

Aidan O'Brien has been pleased with Orderofthegarter ahead of his tilt at the Poule D'Essai Des Poulains (French 2000 Guineas) at Deauville on Sunday.

The son of Galileo has already come on in leaps and bounds this season with impressive victories at Naas and Leopardstown.

"We were delighted with his runs from the first to the second day and we're delighted with him really," said O'Brien, who opted against running former top two-year-old

Caravaggio but is also responsible for Peace Envoy as he goes for a fifth win in the race.

Acapulco set for Irish Debut at Curragh on Sunday

13.05

Acapulco makes her eagerly-anticipated debut for Aidan O'Brien in the Sole Power Sprint Stakes at the Curragh on Sunday.

It is almost two years since the daughter of Scat Daddy provided American trainer Wesley Ward with yet another winner at Royal Ascot when dominating her rivals in the Queen Mary Stakes.

She was the pitched in against her elders in the Nunthorpe at York later that summer and was far from disgraced in finishing second to the popular northern-based sprinter Mecca's Angel.

Acapulco was due to line up in the King's Stand at the Royal meeting last June before injury intervened and she missed much of the campaign before a late-season comeback at Santa Anita.

Having made the move from America to Ireland during the off-season, she is now in foal to a superstar stallion, but her racing days are not over just yet.

O'Brien said: " She seems in good form and loves nice ground. She has been covered by Galileo."

Acapulco is set to face 11 rivals as she warms up for a potential Ascot return in this five-furlong Listed contest and will have to be on her game if she is to make a triumphant comeback.

The Ger Lyons-trained Ardhoomey is the highest-rated runner after winning the Flying Five over this course and distance last September.

Primo Uomo won his first two starts of the year at Dundalk and Cork before finishing a close third behind Washington DC and Ardhoomey in the Woodlands Stakes at Navan three weeks ago.

Trainer Gerard O'Leary said: "He's in good form and I think he has a nice draw (stall 12). The speed horses seem to be near him and hopefully the race will unfold from there.

"Acapulco is probably the benchmark. I'd say whatever is up her tail will be running to form.

"It's a strong race with some of the best sprinters in England and Ireland in it, but our horse is very genuine and tough and we're hoping for a good run."

Barry Murphy's Spirit Quartz and the Willie McCreery-trained Ostatnia are the other home runners, with seven British challengers making up the field.

Robert Cowell saddles Encore D'Or, Sir Robert Cheval and Shrill and they are joined on the trip across the Irish Sea by Just Glamorous (Ron Harris), Monsieur Joe (Paul Midgley), Willytheconqueror (William Muir) and Rural Celebration (Kevin Ryan).

12.05.17

Cliffs gets the job done in Dee Stakes

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Cliffs Of Moher gave Aidan O'Brien a sixth victory in the Homeserve Dee Stakes at Chester with a workmanlike performance in the Listed contest over an extended mile and a quarter.

The Galileo colt, having his first race for 195 days, was given a stern test by the pace-setting Max Zorin.

Ryan Moore had Cliffs Of Moher well positioned just behind the leader, but it took some time for him to overhaul Max Zorin.

The 4/5 favourite got on top in the final furlong to score by a length and half from the staying-on Bay Of Poets. Max Zorin was three-quarters of a length back in third place, with the inexperienced Mirage Dancer coming home well in fourth.

Sky Bet cut the winner from 7/1 to 5/1 for the Investec Derby on the back of the success.

Ryan Moore: "He just raced a bit sleepy the whole way really. He came out a little bit slow, the tempo wasn't strong and he was able to sit second, but he was always just having a look around.

"It was his first run of the year and he just felt a bit rusty, but I'd be very happy with him. It's loose ground and it's not ideal for him, to be fair."

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Ballydoyle Trio set for French Guineas

Roly Poly
©Healy Racing PhotosAidan O'Brien has three chances of landing his second Abu Dhabi Poule D'Essai Des Pouliches (French 1000 Guineas) at Deauville on Saturday.

The Ballydoyle handler's only success in this race came back in 2001 with Rose Gypsy, and he relies this time on Roly Poly, Rain Goddess and Smoulder.

Roly Poly, winner of the Group Two Duchess of Cambridge Stakes at Newmarket last summer, heads the team and is fit from a prep run in the Nell Gwyn last month.

"Roly Poly ran well in Newmarket. She got a little bit laboured in the middle of the race, she was a little bit ring-rusty, and then she stayed on at the end of it," said O'Brien.

"Rain Goddess ran well at Newbury (when fourth in the Fred Darling)."

US Army Ranger returns to the Roodee By Red

A year on from his last visit to the Roodee US Army Ranger returns today in the Group 3 Boodles Diamond Ormonde Stakes over 1 mile, 5 furlongs and 84 yards . On his last visit he had just a maiden success to his name. He returns here as a Group 3 Chester Vase winner and a runner-up in the Group 1 Investec Derby behind Harzand.

The son of Galileo is lightly raced and of course he is in excellent hands and if anybody can ensure that he sees out the trip then it is Aidan who will bring out the best in him.

Big things were expected from the regally bred US Army Ranger from the outset,to such an extent that he was prominent in the ante-post Derby betting before he had even made his racecourse debut.

After scrambling home at 4-11 in the Chester Vase, and excellent second at Epsom it seemed to suggest that he would develop into a top-class colt, but he has not progressed as one would have expected and has been beaten on all four of his subsequent starts. There is still time for US Army Ranger to justify his lofty reputation, now a bigger question is put in front of him, one which needs to be answered as he steps up in trip to beyond a mile and a half for the first time.

He seems to have trained on judging by his seasonal reapperance at Naas in April in the Group 3 Alleged Stakes where he finished 3rd.

Aidan said "He had a nice race over a mile and a quarter at Naas and we’re stepping him up in trip. He ran well in the Chester Vase last year."

Excelebration Two Top Milers

Venice leads 1 2 3 for team Ballydoyle in Vase

11.05

Ryan Moore described Venice Beach as an exciting horse after he led home a stable 1-2-3 in the Chester Vase.

Aidan O'Brien's dominance of the eight-runner line-up for the MBNA Chester Vase was matched by the final result when Venice Beach and Ryan Moore led home a 1-2-3 for Ballydoyle from their four representatives.

Moore had insisted beforehand that the stable were going into the contest with an open mind as to the pecking order among their representatives, but punters clearly believed that Moore's booking for the Galileo half-brother to Arc winner Danedream was significant as he was sent off the 5/2 market-leader.

Stablemate The Anvil went to the front from the start under Donnacha O'Brien and set something of a stop-start pace that saw the field concertina up behind him slightly with four furlongs to go.

But Moore had Venice Beach well positioned and switched him outside The Anvil with over a furlong to run, the winner quickening ahead to score by a length a clear.

Late gains from Wings Of Eagles saw him deny the rallying The Anvil second place, with Godolphin's Tamleek a slightly-disappointing fourth given the way he appeared to be travelling turning for home.

Ryan Moore: "The race went well for him. He jumped well and travelled nicely most of the way. He was a little bit babyish when the pace quickened but he changed his leads and put the race to bed. He was then having a look around having got to the front.

"He was learning all the time as we went round. He's taken a lot of time to learn mentally and he's still learning. He's an exciting horse."

Aidan O'Brien: "He had the strongest form coming into the race. He's a lovely horse and we always thought he'd get a mile and a half and like good ground or better.

"You'd have to say he's very lazy at home. Seamus rides him every day and that's just the way he is - he's a laid-back character.

"I'm sure we'll talk early next week. The Leopardstown horses were always on that programme that they were on. They all came on from their first runs to their second runs and we think these horses will come on again."

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Gutsy Deauville makes all to take Huxley

11.05

Deauville will be considered for all of the big international prizes ahead after making all to win the Huxley Stakes.

Deauville took command from the off as he made all the running in the hands of Ryan Moore to take the sportingbet.com Huxley Stakes.

The 6/4 favourite, who boasted home high-class form last season, including victory in the Belmont Derby, enjoyed the quick ground and quickened from the front three furlongs out.

The turn of pace he produced at that point had seen him stretch a couple of lengths clear early in the straight, but he then had to find more close home to keep the staying-on Poet's Word at bay.

The Aidan O'Brien-trained winner crossed the line just a neck in front to land the Group Three prize.

Ryan Moore: "He jumped a length, a length and a half, quicker than them all. He was able to control the race. He loves fast ground and is a good-moving horse.

"He's a tough, hard horse who knows how to race. He's a Grade One winner in America who likes decent ground.

"We'll talk to Aidan and he'll decide where we go from here."

Aidan O'Brien: "Ryan gave him a beautiful ride. He jumped out well and you'd have to be very happy with him.

"He's a very uncomplicated horse, who is very genuine. You can ride him from the front or just sit handy.

"He's a beautiful mover and obviously top of the ground when you have a horse who moves like that has to be best.

"He's obviously in all the races. We can look at the Curragh (Tattersalls Gold Cup), we can look at (Royal) Ascot - he's a very versatile horse.

"A mile and a quarter is probably as far as he wants to go, but he's a very professional and very straightforward and sound horse.

"We'll try and pick a race for him and split them all up if we can.

"He is a very professional flier so that opens up more options for him later in the year."

Moher to face 8 rivals in Dee Stakes

11.05

©Healy Racing Photos

Aidan O'Brien relies on Cliffs Of Moher to provide him with a sixth victory in the Homeserve Dee Stakes at Chester on Friday.

The Ballydoyle handler first claimed this Listed prize with Gypsy King back in 2005 and has since added to his tally with Admiralofthefleet (2007), Astrology (2012), Magician (2013) and Kingfisher (2014).

Cliffs Of Moher appears a major contender on his first start since trouncing talented stablemate Orderofthegarter in Leopardstown maiden last October.

The Galileo colt faces eight rivals over a mile and a quarter on the Roodee, with Frankel colt Mirage Dancer a fascinating runner for Sir Michael Stoute.

The Khalid Abdullah-owned three-year-old has plenty to find on official ratings, but looked an exciting prospect when winning on his only previous start at Doncaster last autumn.

Abdullah's racing manager, Teddy Grimthorpe, said: " He's taken a little while to come to hand, but Sir Michael is happy with him.

Lavery Head to Lingfield

11.05

©Healy Racing Photos

Sir John Lavery is the headline act after eight colts were declared for Saturday's Betfred Derby Trial at Lingfield.

Trainer Aidan O'Brien has won this Listed prize on four previous occasions and in Sir John Lavery he appears to have another major contender.

The Galileo colt built on a promising Curragh debut last October with a runaway success at Gowran Park a week later and he is currently a best priced 16-1 for next month's Investec Derby at Epsom.

Godolphin had several possible runners at Monday's confirmation stage but Sheikh Mohammed's operation relies on Saeed bin Suroor's Best Solution and the Charlie Appleby-trained Zamfir, who steps up in class after making a winning debut at Leicester in early April.

Mark Johnston saddles Frankuus and Sofia's Rock, while John Gosden is also double-handed with both Glencadam Glory and Tartini in the mix.

Apex King, trained by Ed Dunlop, completes the line-up.

A.P.O'Brien Season earnings update

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Timeform Global Rankings European Division Ballydoyle Spotlight & News Update -13 Ballydoyle Residents in rankings.

Alluringly 2nd in the 2.25 Arkle Finance Cheshire Oaks (Listed) here she is pictured below.

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Regally Bred Smoulder off the mark at Dundalk

©Healy Racing Photos

10.05

Legatissimo's half-sister Smoulder got off the mark at the third time of asking to bring up a Ballydoyle double at Dundalk in the Fundraising Made Easy At Dundalk Stadium Fillies Maiden.

Aidan O'Brien had earlier seen Declarationofpeace win the opener under Seamie Heffernan and here he jocked up his daughter Ana on the successful daughter of brilliant Australian sire Redoute's Choice.

Smoulder, the 7/4 favourite, broke well and she tracked the leaders.

She was noted travelling well in the straight before Aidan O'Brien asked her to lead from over a furlong out.

< Smoulder then kept on well inside the last to hold the slow starting Artistic Melody by a length and three parts.

"I'm delighted with her. She came forward nicely from Limerick," said the winning trainer.

"We'll look for a stakes race for her now. Ana was delighted with her. She travelled well and quickened well.

"I left her in in France but it's probably not fair to her. We'll see how she is but it probably wouldn't be fair."

(GC & EM)

No Peace for Dec's Rivals

Declarationofpeace and Seamie Heffernan are clear at Dundalk - ©Healy Racing Photos

10.01

It was as easy as odds of 1/4 suggested it would be as Declarationofpeace took the opening Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden (Plus 10 Race) at Dundalk.

Third at Navan sixteen days back, the 2.6 million dollar foal travelled supremely well through this five furlong event for Seamie Heffernan.

The Ballydoyle War Front colt extended away inside the final furlong to slam Treasuring by six lengths.

"He's a fine big fellow. He has a lot of speed. We'd be thinking of Ascot and if we could get another run into him it would be a help," said Aidan O'Brien.

"We could look at the Marble Hill or the Rochestown for him."

(GC & EM)

Chester Thursday Preview US Army Ranger & the Vase Quartet

10.05

US Army Ranger and Midterm feature among a strong field of 12 runners for the Boodles Diamond Ormonde Stakes at Chester on Friday.

The Aidan O'Brien-trained US Army Ranger won the Chester Vase at this fixture 12 months ago before faring best of the Ballydoyle battalion when runner-up to Harzand in the Epsom Derby.

He failed to add to his tally during the remainder of his three-year-old campaign and was beaten on his reappearance in last month's Alleged Stakes at Naas, but should strip fitter for the outing.

As a son of Galileo out of the great racemare Midday, Sir Michael Stoute's Midterm has plenty to live up to on breeding.

The four-year-old looked a possible Classic contender after winning his first two starts, but has been largely disappointing since failing to fire in last year's Dante at York. It will be interesting to see whether the application of a visor has the desired effect.

The Ballydoyle trainer saddles 4 in the Chester Vase he has won this Group Three contest over an extended mile and a half for the last four years and a record seven times in all, including with subsequent Derby hero Ruler Of The World in 2013.

All four of his runners in this year's renewal hold entries in the Investec-sponsored Classic on June 3, although at this stage none are prominent in the betting which is currently headed by O'Brien's 2000 Guineas victor Churchill.

Six-times Vase winner Ryan Moore takes the ride on the unexposed Venice Beach, who bolted up in a Tipperary maiden on the last of his three starts when stepped up to a mile and a half.

Wayne Lordan, who steered home Winter for the O'Brien stable in the 1000 Guineas last Sunday, gets the leg-up on Finn McCool, who was not disgraced when unplaced behind Rivet in the Racing Post Trophy at Doncaster in October.

Seamie Heffernan is aboard Wings Of Eagles, who also faced Group One company on his final start as a juvenile in the Criterium de Saint-Cloud.

French Guineas made to Order as O'Brien chases more classic glory.

09.05

Orderofthegarter would appear to be Aidan O'Brien’s leading contender for Sunday’s Poule d'Essai des Poulains, with 17 colts remaining in the French equivalent of the 2000 Guineas at Deauville on Sunday.

The master of Ballydoyle landed both the 2000 Guineas with Churchill and the 1000 Guineas with Winter at Newmarket last weekend and looks set to send a formidable team to France in a bid to add to his Classic tally.

Also among O’Brien’s possible team is Caravaggio, who won each of his four starts as a juvenile, including impressive displays in the Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot and the National Stakes at the Curragh.

However, the speedy son of Scat Daddy is expected to skip the Poulains in favour of a comeback in the Lacken Stakes at Naas in a few weeks’ time.

O'Brien's other contenders after the first forfeit stage are Taj Mahal, Whitecliffsofdover and Peace Envoy.

The field for Saturday’s fillies’ Classic - the Poule d'Essai des Pouliches - was reduced to 20 following the second forfeit stage on Tuesday.

Amongst O’Brien’s possible team of 3 are Rain Goddess Roly Poly & Smoulder. Asking was removed from the race.

Pocketfullofdreams Asking Rain Goddess Rhododendron are 4 of the 21 left in Gurkha Coolmore Saint Alary Group One.

The wait is almost over to see Acapulco

09.05

The eagerly awaited Irish debut of 2015 Queen Mary winner Acapulco could take place in the Listed Sole Power Sprint Stakes at the Curragh this weekend.

The daughter of Scat Daddy has been transferred from Wesley Ward's US base to the care of Aidan O'Brien in Ballydoyle.

O'Brien said: “Acapulco has settled in well and it is possible that she could start off at the Curragh on Sunday. She seems in good form and loves nice ground. She has been covered by Galileo.”

O'Brien has also entered last weekend's Newmarket runner-up Washington DC for the Curragh contest in which a total of eight British trained horses are among the 17 entered for the €50,000 prize.

2 new Coolmore Posters - Galileo & Declaration of War

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4 Strong Chester Vase team & Declarationofpeace looks the part.

09.05

Aidan O'Brien will field four of the eight runners in a bid to extend his excellent recent record in the Chester Vase on Thursday.

The Ballydoyle handler has saddled a record seven previous winners, including in the last four renewals, of this recognized Derby trial.

The last horse to win this Group Three prize before going on to claim Epsom glory the following month was Ruler Of The World in 2013.

This year O'Brien is represented by Finn McCool Pictured above, The Anvil, Venice Beach and Wings Of Eagles. His son, Joseph, runs Dundalk winner Druids Cross.

Aidan O'Brien's Declarationofpeace should be very hard to beat in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden that gets Dundalk under way on Wednesday evening.

The War Front colt came in third on debut at Navan last month when sent off favourite. Romanised, the winner of what could yet prove to be a very hot maiden, is being aimed at the Coventry Stakes.

With that experience under his belt, Declarationofpeace looks the part.

Ballydoyle's 105 English & Irish Classic winners this is why it's the most successful training establishment on planet earth

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A.P.O'Brien year by year Euro classics

Ballydoyle up to 105 English/Irish Classics

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Aidan takes the lead

Leading Flat Sires Update

Alluringly to represent Ballydoyle in Cheshire Oaks

09.05

Alluringly
©Healy Racing PhotosAidan O'Brien relies upon Alluringly to give him a third successive win in the Arkle Finance Cheshire Oaks at Chester on Wednesday.

Diamondsandrubies and Somehow have been the last two winning favourites for the Ballydoyle team and impressive Tipperary scorer Alluringly this time heads a field of seven.

Ralph Beckett's Rich Legacy is the highest-rated horse in the field on the back of winning the May Hill and finishing fourth in the Fillies' Mile.

John Gosden runs Enable, while Tansholpan, Argenterie, Erica Bing and Hidden Steps complete the field.

Video replays of the 4 wins at Newmarket over the weekend including the Guineas double Somehow & Seventh Heaven

Winter - 2000 Guineas

Somehow - Dahlia Stakes

Churchill - 2000 Guineas

Seventh Heaven - Jockey Club Stakes

08.05.17

Aidan's team for Chester

Aidan has drawn up running plans for some of his potential runners at Chester this week.

The Ballydoyle handler has a fine record on the Roodee and looks set to be represented by another small but select team at this year's May meeting, which begins on Wednesday.

Cliffs Of Moher and Venice Beach, both of whom are considered legitimate challengers for the Investec Derby at Epsom, are among the potential raiding party.

Aidan said: "Cliffs Of Moher might go for the Dee Stakes, he's just ready to start.Venice Beach is in the Chester Vase, US Army Ranger may come over for the race Ormonde Stakes and Deauville might come back for the Huxley Stakes.There could be others as well, and we could have more than one in some of the races."

08.05.17

Curragh up next for Magical Minding

Aidan has labelled multiple Group One winner Minding as "unique" as he prepares her for the Tattersalls Gold Cup at the Curragh on May 28.

Last year's 1000 Guineas and Investec Oaks heroine, who also beat the boys in the QEII at Ascot on Champions Day, reappeared with a stylish win in the Mooresbridge Stakes.

While still engaged in the Lockinge over a mile, she will remain at 10 furlongs for the time being.

"She's a great filly," Aidan told At The Races. "It's unusual for a filly to be able to run at the top level over a mile, a mile and a quarter and a mile and a half. She's very enthusiastic, has loads of speed, stays well - she's very unique, really. I think the plan is to go to the Tattersalls with her at the Curragh. She seems to have come out of Naas very well. Seamus rode her on Sunday morning and was very happy with her."

08.05.17

Aidan has a great chance of beating Frankel’s record in a season

The Coolmore juggernaut again flattened its rivals on the Rowley Mile on Sunday and the bad news for those trying to halt the momentum of Aidan O’Brien over the summer is that he is only just getting warmed up.

The victory of ante-post gamble Winter in the QIPCO 1000 Guineas, at the expense of stablemate Rhododendron, came 24 hours after Churchill had made a successful reappearance for the same all-conquering connections in the 2000 Guineas.

Seventh Heaven and Somehow also won significant prizes with ease at Headquarters over the weekend, and with the stable enjoying a one-two-three in the Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial at Leopardstown this felt like one-way traffic with the lights green at every junction.

Those seeking variety over the months ahead may be in for slim pickings.

You name it, O’Brien has the ante-post favourite for it. The market leader, or in some instances market leaders, for the Irish 1000 Guineas, Irish 2000 Guineas, Derby, Oaks, Prince of Wales’s Stakes, St James’s Palace Stakes, Gold Cup, Commonwealth Cup and Coronation Stakes all reside at Ballydoyle.

And that only takes us to the end of next month.

No trainer in the history of the sport has achieved so many top-tier wins as O’Brien - almost 300 now on the Flat and over jumps - and the foundations are in place for him to finally surpass Bobby Frankel’s record of 25 Group One/Grade One wins in a year.

O’Brien traded short last year in his global pursuit but his team ran out of puff in the autumn and early winter. He was left with a haul of 23, with 22 of them on the Flat and one over jumps.

Some will say it is early days to be talking about him pushing the boundaries this season but the horses he has at his disposal suggest it might be a formality.

Paddy Power offer 6-1 against him breaking the record but William Hill are less cautious and go 10-1. That latter price may just be the bet of the year.

Last year, the 13 horses who combined to provide O’Brien with his 22 winners at the highest level on the Flat were Minding (five wins), Highland Reel (two), Alice Springs (two), Seventh Heaven (two), The Gurkha (two), Churchill (two), Found, Deauville, Order Of St George, Rhododendron, Brave Anna, Caravaggio and Roly Poly.

Found and The Gurkha have been retired but the other 11, responsible for 19 of the victories, remain in training.

That gives O’Brien a tremendous “A Team” and does not even include Winter, who came of age on Sunday.

The “B Team” consists of horses such as Cliffs Of Moher, Orderofthegarter, Venice Beach, US Army Ranger, Idaho, War Decree, Lancaster Bomber, Washington DC, Acapulco, Cougar Mountain, Douglas Macarthur, Yucatan and Capri.

It does need end there, of course, because then there is the untapped potential of O’Brien’s “C Team” - his late-maturing unraced or lightly raced three-year-olds plus his battalion of two-year-olds.

Last year, five juveniles combined to give him six Group One victories.

Traditionally, the weak link in O’Brien’s armour has been in the sprint division. The top prizes over five and six furlongs have gone begging but that could change over the months ahead. Acapulco, the Queen Mary Stakes and Nunthorpe runner-up who is 7-1 for the King's Stand Stakes, has joined the Ballydoyle ranks from Wesley Wardand it seems increasingly likely that the unbeaten Caravaggio will have his head turned in that direction.

Speaking exclusively to Racinguk.com, O’Brien said a decision over whether Caravaggio would contest the French 2,000 Guineas or instead be campaigned as a sprinter would be taken early this week.

The Lacken Stakes, a six-furlong race exclusively for three-year-olds at Naas on May 21, has already been identified as an alternative to a trip to Deauville.

“We will probably decide [which route to take] on Monday or Tuesday,” O’Brien said. “There’s a chance he might go sprinting. We are trying to split them up a little bit.

“He might fit into that [sprinting] slot, which would be great. He was a very exciting horse last year.”

Earlier, when asked about his domination, O’Brien typically deflected praise away from himself.

“We are a big team and I’m a small part of it,” he insisted. It is a familiar refrain.

“People [at Ballydoyle] take pride in what they do. It’s a massive team.

“We take one day at a time, that’s all we can do. We have beautifully-bred horses, they come from great bloodlines. Everyone all along the line is doing their best and, I think, enjoying what they are doing.”

Asked how he would view himself if it were him trying to keep up, he initially said: “I’m always very happy for everyone in every way.” Then, struggling over his words, he smiled, gave up and said: “You ask me very difficult questions. I’m not educated enough to be answering that one.”

If O’Brien does break Frankel’s record, which has stood since 2003, he intends doing it fairly.

On Saturday, there were some whispers about an element of team tactics in the 2,000 Guineas but O’Brien is very sensitive about the subject and, on Sunday, volunteered his thinking when it came to pacemakers.

“Usually in races if we have front-runners, or horses that are ridden we always strike them up in the middle,” he said. “By doing that everyone gets a clean shot.

“We always think we do our best, and that’s all we can do, fairly, you know what I mean? Listen, it still doesn’t always happen that way because things happen.”

Two down, 24 to go. Beware getting in the way of the O'Brien Group One-win machine.

APOB Season Earnings Updated

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APOB Year By Year Stats updated + Top Earners updated

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29 British Classics for Coolmore

27 British Classics for Aidan

Belgravia brings up Ballydoyles 4th winner of the day

07.05

After their big double over at Newmarket the Ballydoyle team repeated the feat at Leopardstown as Belgravia added to Douglas Macarthur's earlier win by emerging victorious in the concluding Crew Of R116 Memorial & Irish Coastguard Maiden.

Clongowes had twice finished ahead of Belgravia in the past and he gave it a right good go up front this time.

Indeed he looked like he might stay to the fore up the straight but Belgravia was tough for Ana O'Brien on his first attempt over a mile and a half.

He showed the superior stamina in the closing stages to register a three parts of a length win.

"He's very tough and he'll keep finding for you. We went a nice gallop and he stuck at it well," stated the winning rider.

The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Toursoun, trained by D. K. Weld, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be lame post race.

(AM & EM)

Winter Wonderland at Newmarket

07.05

Aidan O'Brien's Winter beat stablemate Rhododendron in the QIPCO 1000 Guineas Stakes at Newmarket. Check out our race report, video replay and reaction.

Winter and Wayne Lordan claimed glory in the Qipco 1000 Guineas at Newmarket.

Trainer Aidan O'Brien, who landed the 2000 Guineas for an eighth time with Churchill on Saturday, fielded three runners in a bid to win the fillies' Classic.

Rhododendron was the 5/4 favourite in the hands of Ryan Moore, but while she endured a troubled passage, her stable companion Winter stayed out of trouble wide of the field.

Lordan guided the 9/1 shot to the front entering the final furlong and though Rhododendron came home strongly, Winter was away and gone and passed the post two lengths to the good.

Daban was best of the rest in third, another neck away.

Winter was having just her second start for O'Brien, having last year been in the care of the now-retired David Wachman.

Sky Bet make Winter 8/1 from 33s for the Oaks and also cut the runner-up a point to 3/1.

Michael Shinners explained: "Both the winner and second ran excellent races and appear to hold major chances in the Investec Oaks.

"The prices suggest Rhododendron might be suited by the step up in trip and she is our clear favourite at 3/1."

Aidan O'Brien said: "I'm obviously delighted. David (Wachman) always thought the world of her and told us she was going to be a Classic filly.

"Wayne gave her a great ride. She's a fine, big mare.

"The second horse ran a great race. She came home very well. She's a filly that's going to stay very well."

Winning jockey Wayne Lordan said: "She travelled quite well. I went forward quite early because she's a filly that gallops and I knew the track would suit her.

"This means a lot. I'm very grateful to Aidan for letting me keep the ride on the filly."

The winning jockey added: "It was pretty straightforward. I just followed the pace. Even though it was her first time on the track (Newmarket), it didn't matter.

"I think she'll get a mile and a quarter."

Aidan does the Guineas Double for the 3rd time as Winter wins the 1000 guineas

Douggie Mac bags Derrinstown

07.05

Douglas Macarthur came out on top in a Ballydoyle-dominated finish to the Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial at Leopardstown.

Trainer Aidan O'Brien has saddled 10 previous winners of this prestigious event, with subsequent Epsom heroes Galileo (2001) and High Chaparral (2002) - as well as four-time Gold Cup victor Yeats (2004) - among those on the roll of honour.

This year O'Brien fired three bullets and though Douglas Macarthur had fared best of of the trio when runner-up in the Ballysax Stakes a month ago, he was the Ballydoyle outsider at 7-1.

Emmet McNamara's mount set out to make all the running, but stablemate Capri, fourth in the Ballysax, ranged alongside rounding the home turn.

Yucatan, who finish third in the Ballysax, was the 13-8 favourite, and he finished strongly to set up a grandstand finish.

However, Douglas Macarthur clung on grimly against the rail to score by a head.

Yucatan just beat Capri to the runner-up spot.

McNamara said: "They were three very nice horses and it was just nice to be on one of them.

"He stays all day and he shouldn't have any problems getting a mile and a half.

"He's a typical Galileo - he gets his head down and really tries."

Somehow Storms home in Dahlia

07.05

Aidan O'Brien's Somehow won the Charm Spirit Dahlia Stakes at Newmarket. Check out our race report, video replay and reaction.

Somehow proved much too good for her opponents in the Group Two Charm Spirit Dahlia Stakes.

Aidan O'Brien's filly was making a swift reappearance after having claimed a Listed prize at Gowran last Sunday and was the 13/8 favourite under Ryan Moore.

Elbereth set the fractions in front and saw off the majority of her rivals, but had no answer when Somehow ranged up alongside and the Ballydoyle inmate comfortably extended three and a quarter lengths clear at the line.

Elbereth was a long way clear of the remainder in second.

Sky Bet reacted to the easy victory by cutting Somehow to 10/1 from 20s for the Lockinge Stakes at Newbury, a market topped by Ribchester (5/2) and Galileo Gold (3/1).

Aidan O'Brien said: "We're delighted with her. We thought she was a very nice filly last year.

"She loves following pace and she quickens very well.

"She also likes fast ground, which is also a big help to her. She loves racing. She's very straightforward.

"We might have a look at the Lockinge (Newbury) or something like that."

Ryan Moore said: "Her two runs this year have been excellent. I think she's shown herself to be a high-class filly and she's dealt with them very easily."

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Churchill won the war again!

06.05

Hot favourite Churchill gave Aidan O'Brien a record eighth win in the Qipco 2000 Guineas at Newmarket.

Stablemate Lancaster Bomber cut out much of the early running alongside Law and Order and Spirit Of Valor but Ryan Moore was always prominent aboard last year's Dewhurst Stakes winner and secured a perfect pitch next to the stands' side rail.

Lancaster Bomber was three or four off the rail allowing his strong travelling stablemate a perfect run and the Galileo colt made no mistake, keeping on stoutly to score by a length.

Eventual second Barney Roy showed his inexperience, racing keenly and then appearing to stumble slightly in the dip but he picked up well when hitting the rising ground while Al Wukair came from a long way back to finish third.

There are plenty of options open to the winner and Sky Bet cut Churchill to 4/1 (from 5/1) for the Investec Derby, 6/4 (from 3/1) for the St James's Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot and to 4/6 (from 7/4) for the Irish 2000 Guineas.

Ryan Moore told ITV Racing: "He's such a lovely horse. He has a magnificent mind. I think he has everything you want in a racehorse - he travels, has speed and loads of class.

"He was always racing comfortably - he was there a little bit early. He always feels like there's more when you ask him."

Aidan O'Brien said: "I was very worried about it being his first run. He's a big horse and we knew he would come on for the run. Ryan gave him a lovely ride.

"Everyone at home was very happy with the horse which is why we took the chance to come first time, so I'm delighted.

"We always thought he was a horse with a lot of speed. Ryan was very happy to be handy. The pace was sensible and Ryan knew Donnacha's (O'Brien) horse (Lancaster Bomber) would take him there.

"The lads (owners) will decide about the Derby themselves. They make all the decisions about all the horses.

"He is very relaxed and will probably get as far as you want him to get - he has speed as well, but he has a very relaxed way of racing. He is by Galileo and horses by that sire very rarely lack stamina."

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OH YES CHURCHILL - THE GUINEAS WAR IS WON

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A.P.O'Brien Nation by Nation G1 wins

APOB Season Earnings updated

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APOB Year by Year Stats updated

Top Earning horses in training 2017 updated after Churchill Seventh Heaven & DC have run

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Congratulations Team Coolmore

Raise a Glass to Sir Henry Greatly missed he was a wonderful horseman Aidan now up to No.4

Seventh Heaven lands Jockey Club Stakes

06.05

Seventh Heaven made the most of the absence of Across The Stars in the Dunaden Jockey Club Stakes at Newmarket. Check out our race report, video replay and reaction.

Seventh Heaven made the most of the absence of Across The Stars to win the Dunaden Jockey Club Stakes at Newmarket.

The Aidan O'Brien-trained four-year-old was sent off at 4/7 once her main market rival had been declared a non-runner on Friday and made no mistake.

Held-up in a share of third in the five strong field as Pinzolo made the running from Galapiat, Ryan Moore asked the Irish Oaks and Yorkshire Oaks winner to close fully three furlongs from home.

She hit the front with a quarter of a mile to run and kept on strongly to make a winning seasonal reappearance in the Group Two contest.

Sky Bet make Seventh Heaven 4/1 from 6/1 for the Coronation Cup and 7/1 from 10/1 for the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes.

Aidan O'Brien told ITV Racing: "She's a lovely mare, she gets a mile and a half well and she loves good ground or better and is progressing all the time.

"Obviously she was a very good mare last year and physically she's doing very well. She ran some very good races last year.

"We came here today with one eye on the Coronation Cup. We tried to get a run in between and this race might work for her. We were delighted with her in Dubai and this race was lovely. You'd have to be very happy for her.

"She's a big high cruise and then when you drop her down, she takes a little time to get into gear; that's the way she is. Hopefully, she's a mare to look forward to this year."

Ryan Moore said: "That was very smooth. Quick ground is very important to her. She hasn't had her conditions since the Yorkshire Oaks and she has done remarkably well from three to four."

One Foot In Heaven's rider Jim Crowley said: "The ground was probably too quick for him but I think the trip is right. He still ran a good race.

"He is a good horse, he just needs a little bit more juice under foot and a more level track."

Ballydoyle weekend runners

Confirmed 2000 Guineas jockey Bookings for Saturday at Newmarket Ryan rides Churchill Heff rides Spirit Of Valor and Donnacha on Lancaster Bomber.

Washington DC runs in Palace House G3 at 2.20 Seventh Heaven runs in Jockey club G2 at 2.55 at Newmarket on Saturday Ryan to ride both.

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O'Brien unveils weekend plans

05.05.17

Rhododendron Faces 13 In 1,000 Guineas

Long-time ante-post favourite Rhododendron heads a field of 14 declared for the Qipco 1000 Guineas at Newmarket on Sunday.

Last year's Fillies' Mile winner heads a three-strong team for trainer Aidan O'Brien, who is aiming for a fourth success in the one-mile Classic.

The Ballydoyle trainer, who took the race 12 months ago with Minding, has also left in Hydrangea and Winter, but has taken out Roly Poly and Rain Goddess.

Churchill Ready for Guineas Test

Aidan O'Brien does not envisage the smaller-than-expected field at Newmarket on Saturday posing any problems for Qipco 2000 Guineas favourite Churchill.

Last year's leading juvenile has been ante-post favourite all winter and despite not running since October, his position has hardened in recent days - despite some impressive performances from winners of the trial events.

O'Brien ran some of his lesser lights in those trials to gauge the opposition and retains full faith in his number one hope.

"So far so good. Everyone has been happy so far and everything has gone smoothly," said O'Brien.

"There are only 10 in it but I think all the main ones are there, all the trial horses and the French horse (Al Wukair).

"He's a straightforward horse, last year he just used to follow the leaders.

"I don't see the small field as a problem - I suppose it would be better for the race if they came up in one group rather than split into two.

"It's a high-quality race. All the horses you'd expect to be there are there, whereas in other years there might be some lesser horses.

"We're very happy, he's done everything very well. Anything we've asked him to do, he's done and done very well - always.

"Obviously we haven't given him a run, but he's been away. Donnacha (O'Brien) rides him every day and is very happy with him."

O'Brien also runs Lancaster Bomber and Spirit Of Valor.

Quick return for Somehow

Somehow makes a swift return to action in the Charm Spirit Dahlia Stakes at Newmarket on Sunday.

Aidan O'Brien's filly opened her account for the campaign in good style in a Listed event at Gowran last weekend and steps back up to Grade Two level on Qipco 1000 Guineas day.

Derrinstown 3

Aidan O'brien will saddle 3 horses in the Derrinstown Stud Derby Trail at Leopardstown on Sunday Capri (Colm) Yucatan (Heff) & Douglas MacArthur (Emmet)

O'Brien is looking for his 11th win in the race Previous winner were Risk Material (1998), Galileo (2001), High Chaparral (2002), Yeats (2004), Dylan Thomas (2006), Archipenko (2007), Fame and Glory (2009), Midas Touch (2010), Recital (2011), Battle of Marengo (2013)

04.05.17

A winter's chill sweeps the Guineas field by Red

A lot of punters who will have backed Rhododendron to bloom on Sunday in the Qipco 1000 Guineas could find themselves freezing if Winter comes up trumps on the day.

Ballydoyle's Guineas favourite is not under immediate threat of being expundged from the head of betting for the Classic, but a monster gamble on stablemate Winter took place in betting shops across the country on Wednesday.

Winter who was beaten a head by Hydrangea another of Aidan's Newmarket hopes in the 1,000 Guineas trial at Leopardstown last month is now vying for second favouritism.

she had been available at 33-1 with different bookmakers last weekend, Winter's odds are now as short as 8-1 with most firms, and 9/1 with Paddy Power.

William Hill said on Wednesday: "We've kept onside with Winter as we were very impressed with her effort from a wide draw behind Hydrangea at Leopardstown. When she was 33-1 elsewhere on Monday, we were 25-1. We were 10-1 this morning when others were bigger prices and when money came in for her, we took evasive action."

Ladbrokes said: "It's been a solid gamble – the money's been trickling through across all channels all day long."

Aidan , who has won the 1,000 Guineas twice in the last five years with Minding and Homecoming Queen, said: "We've been happy with Winter and the plan is to send her and Hydrangea with Rhododendron on Sunday. Our other two entries, Rain Goddess and Roly Poly, will probably go to France."

04.05.17

Churchill is ready for the Guineas

Aidan O'Brien insists ante-post favourite Churchill is "well ready" for the Qipco 2000 Guineas at Newmarket on Saturday.

Last season's Dewhurst winner is all the rage for the first domestic Classic season, but will be having his first start for 210 days.

O'Brien, though, believes the Galileo colt will be fit enough to do himself justice.

He told the Telegraph: "He seems to be fine. Everything has gone well.

"He was a very mature two-year-old, big and strong with plenty of scope. I've been very happy with him over the winter.

"We think he is well ready to start. I'm very happy with him at the moment."

Churchill has not yet raced beyond seven furlongs and still holds an entry in the Investec Derby at Epsom.

When asked what will be the champion two-year-old's best trip this season, O'Brien said: "I'm not sure. The Guineas should be no problem.

"He travels very smoothly through his races and has a lot of pace."

Dali & Minding Posters by me Picture from the brilliant David betts

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Minding still has Lockinge option

03.05

Top-class filly Minding is among 21 horses standing their ground for the Al Shaqab Lockinge Stakes at Newbury on May 20.

Last season's 1000 Guineas and Oaks heroine warmed up in her bid for an eighth Group One triumph with a pleasing performance when making a successful reappearance at Naas on Monday, although she does have alternative targets.

Aidan O'Brien's star could renew rivalry with the Richard Fahey-trained Ribchester, who she defeated in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot in October.

Among O'Brien's seven possibles are Alice Springs, Deauville and Somehow, while Jim Bolger's Tribal Beat is another Irish entry.

Al Shaqab Racing's Galileo Gold, winner of the 2000 Guineas in 2016, pleased trainer Hugo Palmer in a racecourse gallop at Newmarket last month as part of his preparation for the Lockinge.

Ballydoyle 8 could hold the key to the Derrinstown

03.05

Aidan O’Brien has eight entries of the 13 in the Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial at Leopardstown on Sunday.

While the master of Ballydoyle has won the race 10 times, he has not been successful since 2013 when Battle Of Marengo prevailed.

Douglas Macarthur, Yucatan and Capri, the second, third and fourth home in the Ballysax, could all clash again.

Diodorus, Ensign, Finn McCool, Tay Mahal and Venice Beach, the only one of the eight who won last time out, complete the team.

Joseph O’Brien’s Druid’s Cross, Jim Bolger’s Dubai Sand, Inshayable and Naturalist, first and second in a maiden at the track, and Night Of Glory complete the possibles.

In the Amethyst Stakes, Dermot Weld has entered Foxtrot Charlie and Raymonda, while the popular duo of Elleval and Sruthan are among nine possibles.

Jim Bolger’s Tribal Beat, O’Brien’s Peace Envoy and Cougar Mountain and Gordon Lord Byron are also in the mix.

In the Derrinstown Stud 1,000 Guineas Trial Ralph Beckett’s unbeaten Sibilance is among 14 fillies entered.

Fozzy Stack’s Angel Island, Michael O’Callaghan’s Holy Cat and Weld’s Sorelle Delle Rose are other promising types.

O’Brien has entered Alluringly and Rain Goddess among his five-strong team.

New Coolmore Posters 2YO Rising Stars & Gun 2YO

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02.05

Seventh Heaven pencilled in for the Jockey Club stakes

Aidan could run Seventh Heaven in the Group 2 Dunaden Jockey Club stakes at Newmarket on Saturday. She was successful in 2 Group 1 races last year the Darley Irish Oaks and Darley Yorkshire Oaks.

The daughter of Galileo made her seasonal reapperance at the end of March when finishing 2nd behind Jack Hobbs in the Group 1 Longines Dubai Sheema Classic.

02.05

Caravaggio remains on course for the French 2000 Guineas

Caravaggio remains on course for a possible tilt at the French 2000 Guineas on Sunday week.

Aidan O'Brien's colt won each of his four starts as a juvenile including commanding victories in the Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot and the Phoenix Stakes at the Curragh.

The son of Scat Daddy was on Monday taken out of Saturday's Qipco 2000 Guineas at Newmarket, but could still get his shot at Classic glory in the Poule d'Essai des Poulains at Deauville.

O'Brien said: " We always had our eye on the French race with him and his big works are going to be this weekend.

"He's going to do plenty this week and then we'll see how we are going.

"We know that he can go sprinting anytime. He's not short of pace."

Queen Minding is Back she wins Aidan's 100th group 2 on the flat Full Report Below on this page

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Peace Envoy unplaced in 5.05 Power Irish EBF Tetrarch Stakes (Listed) at Naas - Elizabeth Browning 4th in the Athasi Stakes (Fillies Group 3) 4.30 Naas - Actress & Ryan Moore 2nd in the 1.40 Coolmore No Nay Never Irish EBF Fillies Maiden at Naas

Aidan O'Brien has four of the 12 runners left in the 2,000 Guineas with Churchill, Lancaster Bomber, Peace Envoy and Spirit Of Valor.

Aidan O'Brien has Five of the 18 left in the 1,000 Guineas with Rhododendron Winter Rain Goddess Roly Poly and Hydrangea.

Electric Minding dismantles Mooresbridge field

01.05

Minding coasted home for Ryan Moore

Minding stamped her class on the Camelot Irish EBF Mooresbridge Stakes at Naas.

The standout filly of her generation having won the 1000 Guineas and the Oaks, she also beat the boys over a mile in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes on Champions Day last year.

She will face much sterner tasks than this as the season unfolds, but it was pleasing to see Aidan O'Brien's four-year-old look in such good form so early in the campaign.

Jim Bolger's Moonlight Magic tried to take her on for the lead early, but Ryan Moore soon established an advantage which his mount would never relinquish.

Without being asked too many questions, Minding took a few lengths out of the field and the 1-3 favourite extended in pleasing fashion.

Moonlight Magic came home a clear second best as Moore allowed Minding to coast across the line.

Speaking afterwards, O'Brien said: "We're delighted to get her started back, it's nice to get her going again. Ryan was very happy with her.

"She has the options of the Tattersalls (Gold Cup) or the Lockinge in Newbury. We'll probably be looking at the Tattersalls, I'd imagine that's where we'll go.

"We'll take it one at a time but we'd be thinking of the Prince Of Wales at Royal Ascot then.

"She's a great filly and what she did last year was incredible. To go back to a mile at the end, it's very rare a horse can do that over a mile, a mile and a quarter and a mile and a half.

"She's done well physically and has changed into a four-year-old. When she was a two-year-old she looked like a two-year-old and then she looked like a three-year-old, but sometimes horses going from three to four don't look like four-year-olds. She has changed."

Ballydoyle's first juvenile maiden winner Dali Ascot Bound

01.05

Dali could have Royal Ascot on his agenda after giving Aidan O'Brien his first juvenile winner of the season in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Race at Naas this afternoon.

Ryan Moore made all on the 4/6 shot and he kept on well in the closing stages to record a length victory.

Kevin Prendergast's newcomer Hawaam shaped with plenty of promise in second.Dali was making his second racecourse appearance having finish runner-up on his debut at Dundalk last month.

“You'd be delighted with that. He came forward from his first run and he'll come forward again,” said O'Brien.

“Ryan liked him and we'll hopefully get another run into him.

“I think five or six suits him, he has plenty of speed, when he learns what he's at. He was still swapping and changing a good bit so he still doesn't really know. He would have learned plenty today.

When asked if he could be an Ascot horse O'Brien added:- “He could be and you'd like to get another run into him before that.”

The winner was given a 16/1 quote for the Coventry Stakes by Paddy Power.