US Navy Flag leads home Ballydoyle 1 2 in the Middle Park as Aidan closes in on World Record
Misty for Me what a mum 3 foals to race MG1W Roly Poly G1 Winner US Navy Flag & G3 Winner Cover Song & A Full Sis to come next year





US Navy Flag put up a gutsy performance to lead home a one-two for Aidan O'Brien in the Juddmonte Middle Park Stakes at Newmarket.

The 10/1 shot, ridden by Seamie Heffernan, was always prominent in the centre of the course and saw of the challenge of his Donnacha O'Brien-ridden stablemate Fleet Review (25/1).

Mark Johnston's Cardsharp (14/1) was third.

It was O'Brien's 20th Group One success after Clemmie in the Cheveley Park Stakes, but there was disappointment as O'Brien's first string, Sioux Nation, was never able to challenge after being held up in the early stages by Ryan Moore.

US Navy Flag was introduced at 33/1 for the QIPCO 2000 Guineas by Sky Bet.

Heffernan said: "It was no surprise he ran well. I thought Ryan (Moore, on Sioux Nation) was the danger, but his horse is big and might be a little bit weak. This lad is out of a Galileo mare and that's what kicked in.

"He's a horse that's a bit gawky and looks around, so the blinkers help him focus and make the jockey's job easier. Aidan will take him home and have a look at him and see what shape he's in."



 



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Clemmie storms home in the Cheveley Park stakes 



Clemmie completed a hat-trick to open her Group One account in the Juddmonte Cheveley Park Stakes at Newmarket.

The full sister to dual Guineas hero Churchill added this prestigious contest to her Group Three and Group Two triumphs as she asserted at the end of the six-furlong trip.

Treasuring took the field along with Different League and Madeline close up, but Clemmie made her bid two furlongs out and was vying for the lead.

Different League looked a big danger but she could find no extra in the final 100 yards as Clemmie (15/8 favourite) pulled away in the hands of Ryan Moore to score by a length and three-quarters.

Madeline was a further length and a half away in third place.

Moore said: "She's very, very high-class and travelled beautifully throughout. It was a messy enough sort of race, but she always had herself in the right position, she was very comfortable and always felt in control.

"Hopefully there's more to come. It's been a while since she ran here in the summer, she's improved from every start and I'd say she'll continue to do so. She's not stopping in her races and is giving me every indication she'll go further."

Sky Bet cut the winner to 4/1 favourite (from 7s) for the QIPCO 1000 Guineas.

O'Brien said: "I'm delighted with her. She's a full-sister to Churchill and is a filly who has been progressing with every run.

"To be showing that kind of class over six furlongs, you'd be over the moon. She's very much like Churchill - she's right in his mould. Obviously he's a colt and she's a filly, but she has a great mind and plenty of speed and nothing fazes her.

"I think the lads will discuss it and see what they want to do. She would have the option of going to America (for the Breeders' Cup) if that's what the lads wanted to do and she said she was happy to do that.

"A mile around there (Del Mar) on nice ground should be no problem to her."




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A colt with a very bright future here is Found's little Brother JAMES COOK Beautifully captured by David Betts Poster by me 





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Former Ballydoyle Resident Foundry wins the Metropolitan Stakes G1 in Australia.  

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Former Ballydoyle resident Foundry a 8 year old son of multiple champion sire Galileo Flashed home late to win the Metropolitan Stakes. Lloyd Williams' prominence in Australia's feature staying races was once again highlighted when eight-year-old gelding Foundry claimed victory in the Group I The Metropolitan (2400m) at Randwick on Saturday.

Williams, a five-time Melbourne Cup-winning owner who operates with trainer Robert Hickmott at Macedon Lodge in Victoria, produced Foundry ($10) third-up to annex the $750,000 contest for the second time in five years following Seville's 2013 triumph.

Foundry was ridden by Melbourne-based hoop Michael Dee, who captured the first Group I of his fledgling career after the son of Galileo defeated the Darren Weir-trained Big Duke ($5) by half a length. Stephen Marsh's Chocante ($21) was beaten a further 1-1/4 lengths in third.



Foundry claims another Metropolitan for Lloyd




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War Decree destroys Diamond rivals and could be states bound. 


Aidan O'Brien trained his second Dundalk winner tonight, and in the process supplied son Donnacha with Group race success, on the impressive War Decree in the Koffy Diamond Stakes.

Seamie Heffernan won the 6.30 on newcomer I Can Fly, and here Donnacha donned the silks of Andrew Rosen for the Group 3 feature.

Rosen owns the War Front three-year-old with the Coolmore partners, and they'll doubtless all have been pleased with the performance of this 7/2 chance.


He cruised into it in the straight after favourite Abingdon had put the pace to the race.

In the end War Decree had two and quarter lengths in hand over British raider Absolute Blast. The aforementioned Abingdon was a length back in third.

Donnacha O'Brien said afterwards: "He's a horse with a lot of natural talent. He can be a little bit tricky at times but it's nice to get him back to winning ways. He loves that surface and hard ground is what he needs.


"He had a little break after France, and that's a lovely prep for him if they do decide to go to America."



©Healy Racing Photos


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I Can Fly Storms home on debut at Dundalk 
I Can Fly Joins September Seahenge Delano Roosevelt and Saxon Warrior as Aidan's only first time out winning Juveniles in 2017


I Can Fly could hardly have made a better start as she impressed under Seamie Heffernan in division two of the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Maiden (Plus 10 Race) at Dundalk.

The Ballydoyle first-timer, a 240,000 guineas yearling, would have learned plenty as she squeezed up the inner of Raynama around a furlong and a half out.

In short time then the daughter of Fastnet Rock extended away to prevail by four lengths.


"Some of ours can be greener than we think but she wasn't," remarked Heffernan.

"She enjoyed herself and won very well. There was plenty to like about her, and she's a quick learner. She didn't mind the surface."

(AM & EM)




©Healy Racing Photos




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Phoenix winner Sioux Nation Aidan's big hope in Middle Park 
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29.09
Aidan O'Brien sends a formidable quartet into battle in the Juddmonte Middle Park Stakes at Newmarket on Saturday.

Ryan Moore has sided with Sioux Nation over U S Navy Flag (Seamie Heffernan), Fleet Review (Donnacha O'Brien) and Declarationofpeace (Wayne Lordan).

Of Royal Ascot and Phoenix Stakes winner Sioux Nation, O'Brien, who has saddled four previous winners of the six-furlong contest, said: "He's in good form and has had a little break since the Curragh. The better the ground, the better for all of them."


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Nelson bids to emmulate his farther in Lodge

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29.09
Nelson is out to follow in his sire's footsteps by winning the Juddmonte Royal Lodge Stakes at Newmarket on Saturday.

Trained by Aidan O'Brien, the son of Frankel is certainly bred to be good as his dam Moonstone was also a Classic winner in the Irish Oaks.

Frankel's win in the Royal Lodge was the first time he was asked a serious question, when Tom Queally made his move from last to first coming around the bend (when the race was still run at Ascot).

Back in third that day was Treasure Beach, a subsequent Irish Derby and Secretariat Stakes winner, and commentator Jim McGrath's statement as he crossed the line - "by golly he looks a champion" - proved to be spot on.

Nelson was beaten in his first two outings but two wins at Leopardstown, including in a Group Three recently, have promised plenty.

O'Brien said: "He's been in good form since Leopardstown and everything has gone well since."


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Balydoyle Arc Jockey Bookings - Winter - Ryan Order Of St George - Don Capri - Wayne; Seventh Heaven Pat Smullen Idaho - Heff.

G1 runners On Sunday at Chantilly (apart from Arc)

Prix Marcel Boussac: Magical and September. - Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere: Rostropovich, & Happily - Prix de l'Abbaye: Alphabet & Washington DC. - Prix de l'Opera: Hydrangea, Rain Goddess &  Rhododendron. - Prix de La Foret: - Cougar Mountain & Spirit Of Valor.

Aidan runs 4 in the Middle Park Stakes G1 Fleet Review Sioux Nation US Navy Flag & Declarationofpeace - Clemmie runs in the Cheveley Park Stakes G1 - Ryan Moore to ride Nelson in the Group Two Royal Lodge Stakes 

Ballydoyle runners Friday & Saturday




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2018 First season sires No Nay Never, Australia, & War Command perform strongly at Goffs 2017

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Clemmie bids for Group One Glory in Cheveley


©Healy Racing Photos
28.09
Aidan O'Brien relies solely on Clemmie to give him back-to-back victories in the Juddmonte Cheveley Park Stakes at Newmarket on Saturday.

The full-sister to dual Guineas hero Churchill will face 12 rivals in the Group One test over six furlongs as she seeks to supplement Brave Anna's success of 12 months ago.

She was last in competitive action when landing the Duchess of Cambridge Stakes at Newmarket in July, although she was a late absentee from the Moyglare Stud Stakes at the Curragh earlier this month because of unsuitable ground.

That race was won by her stablemate Happily, who was one of the three withdrawals at the 48-hour final declaration stage, along with O'Brien's third five-day entry Butterscotch and Take Me With You from Jeremy Noseda's stable. The Newmarket trainer is represented by Betty F, winner of her only start.

Others in a classy field include Lowther scorer Threading, Flying Childers and Queen Mary winner Heartache and French raider Different League, who took the Albany at Royal Ascot.

Joseph O'Brien's Now You're Talking and Ger Lyons' Treasuring boosts the Irish challenge, while Dean Ivory's supplementary entry Eirene takes her chance.

Completing the line-up are Chica La Habana, Crossing The Line, Darkanna, Madeline and Special Purpose.




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O'Brien assembles 5 pronged attack on Enable's Arc bid 

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28.09
Aidan O'Brien will saddle Order Of St George, Capri, Seventh Heaven, Idaho and Winter in Sunday's Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.

The master of Ballydoyle was responsible for the first three home last year and looks to pose the biggest threat to hot-favourite Enable at Chantilly.

John Gosden's filly has carried all before her this season and is attempting to win her fifth Group One in succession.

Sir Michael Stoute's Ulysses, second to Enable in the King George but winner of the Eclipse and Juddmonte International either side of that, will attempt to give his trainer a second Arc.

The main French challenge is expected to come from Brametot, winner of the French Guineas and Derby, and Zarak.

Andre Fabre runs Cloth Of Stars, Plumatic and Doha Dream while German interest rests with Dschingis Secret, winner of the Prix Foy, and Iquitos.

Satono Diamond, who will have the assistance of his pacemaker Satono Noblesse, lines up for Japan.

The field is completed by One Foot In Heaven and Silverwave with the draw taking place this evening.



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Timeform Global Rankings European Division Ballydoyle Spotlight & News UPDATE 27.09





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Elizabeth Browning the eyecatcher among list of Ballydoyle lots at Autumn Horses in Training Sale Oct. 30th - Nov. 3rd, 2017 complete list of the horses for sale. Notice the trend over the years are only a fraction are ever sold at this sale





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O'Brien unleashes duo on Joel Stakes 

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27.09
Aidan O'Brien will be double-handed with Sir John Lavery and Whitecliffsofdover as he attempts back-to-back victories in the Shadwell Joel Stakes at Newmarket on Friday.

Whitecliffsofdover won the Free Handicap over seven furlongs of this mile in April, while Sir John Lavery finished one place ahead of his stablemate when fourth to Suedois in the Boomerang Stakes at Leopardstown on Irish Champions Weekend.
O'Brien won the Group Two last season with Cougar Mountain.

On the same card Butterscotch will run in the Shadwell Rockfel Stakes (Fillies' Group 2) & Coat of Arms runs in the Derrinstown British EBF Maiden Stakes.



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Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe under strong consideration for Winter

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27.09

O'Brien will send a strong contingent to Paris including his brilliant 3-year-old Filly Winter which has the option of sticking to her own sex in the prix de l'Opera over a distance of a mile and a quarter or taking on the big boys in the coveted Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe over one mile and four furlongs.

The Opera is the same distance Winter handled with ease as she won the Group 1 Nassau Stakes at Goodwood. Currently, she is listed as the 3-1 favourite for this race with Sobetsu priced at 4-1 and stablemate Hydrangea at 8-1 on most Ace betting sites. It’s worth noting that the latter recently upset the brilliant Winter in the Group 1 Matron Stakes at Leopardstown. It was the second time Hydrangea got the better of her stablemate.

The other alternative would be to take a shot for the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. While the Opera seems the more likely choice, O’Brien has never been one to back down from a challenge. The same connections (owners Magnier, Tabor, Smith and trainer O'Brien) took last year’s Arc with Found and were also responsible for the next two home, Highland Reel and Order Of St George, both of which are under consideration for the race again this time. As for Winter, there would be three major obstacles to overcome if pointed to the Arc. First, she would be stepping up in distance to contest a mile and a half for the first time. Second, she would be taking on the boys for the first time in her young career. Finally, she would be facing the awesome Enable, a Multiple Group 1 winning 3-year old filly owned by Prince Khalid Abdullah and trained by John Gosden. Enable is coming off a facile victory in the Group 1 Darley Yorkshire Oaks. Having also won both the Irish and English Oaks, Enable would have an advantage over Winter having already won at the Arc’s distance.

O’Brien has other options for the Arc, including the aforementioned Highland Reel and Order Of St George along with Capri, but he seems to be giving the Arc a hard look with regard to Winter. In a statement made to the press, he stated, “The Arc is definitely something we're thinking about for Winter. I'm not saying it's definite she'll run in it but it's certainly possible and under strong consideration".


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Longing off the mark at tip A Ballydoyle double on the day


©Healy Racing Photos

Longing gained an important set of brackets when opening her account in the nine-furlong fillies maiden at Tipperary.

The Ballydoyle filly cost 1 million guineas as a yearling and had shaped with promise on her sole previous outing when third at Leopardstown in April.

Seamie Heffernan tracked the leader Rickrack on the even-money favourite before asking her to tackle that rival a furlong-and-a-half from home.

The daughter of Galileo got on top inside the final 100 yards to record a three-parts-of-a-length success. Longing is a half-sister to Group Three winner Ladys First.

"She had the form to win it but it doesn't always go that way. It was a while since she ran so I'm expecting her to improve and she's honest,” said Heffernan.

"She is a big heavy mare and looking at her, you'd think there's plenty improvement in her; she is likeable and put her head down."


(Quotes by Thomas Weekes)


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Gutsy Zabriskie sees off Spanish Point in Tip Thriller 



The outsider of the three Ballydoyle horses proved victorious in the colts and geldings maiden at Tipperary.

Saracen Knight was sent off 4/5 favourite for the seven-furlong contest but came under pressure before the straight.

Zabriskie, a 9/1 shot under Wayne Lordan, made the running and was always just doing enough to hold his other stable-mate Spanish Point in the closing stages.

Lordan only had to give the son of Frankel a couple of slaps down the shoulder inside the final furlong to record a neck success over Spanish Point, who is also by the same sire.

Saracen Knight stayed on into third, three-and-three-quarter lengths back, to complete a clean sweep for the yard.

The winner was reversing form with the runner-up from their debut runs at the Curragh when the pair had been sixth and tenth behind Gobi Desert.


Lordan said of the winner:- "He is a very tough and genuine lad and came forward a good bit from the first day.

"He enjoyed being in front and when Donnacha joined me it helped me and he went to the line well and he stays well.

“With that ground you just have to keep going all the way to the line because it is pretty deep ground. He handled it away and stepped forward from his first run."

(Quotes by Thomas Weekes)



©Healy Racing Photos




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Leading Sires Tables Updated


AIDAN P O'BRIEN YEAR BY YEAR EUROPEAN CLASSICS VICTORIES (Aidan Sets A New Record) 


A.P.O'Brien Top Earning horses to have raced in 2017 

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A.P.O'Brien Career Stats Updated 

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A.P.O'Brien Season Earnings Updated 




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Aidan Delighted with James Cook Debut 
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26.09

Aidan O'Brien was delighted with the debut performance of the impeccably-bred James Cook at Naas on Sunday.

The juvenile colt is a son of Galileo out of the top-class racemare Red Evie, making him a full-brother to Breeders' Cup Turf and Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe heroine Found.

James Cook was unsurprisingly among the market principals for his racecourse introduction in a seven-furlong maiden and there was a lot to like about the way he came home to finish second behind the Ger Lyons-trained Mcmunigal.

O'Brien said: "We were very happy with him. He was very raw and very green early, but when he got it together he came home well.

"He ran a very good race for being as raw as he was, so we look forward to him the next time."

James Cook is entered in the Racing Post Trophy at Doncaster on October 28.



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Clemmie & Happily in Cheveley Park Mix 
Clemmie pictured winning the Duchess Of Cambridge Stakes
25.09
Leading ante-post 1000 Guineas contenders Clemmie and Happily are in contention for the Juddmonte Cheveley Park Stakes at Newmarket on Saturday.

The Aidan O'Brien-trained pair are among three entries, alongside Butterscotch, that could represent Ballydoyle in the six-furlong Group One contest on the Rowley Mile, which the powerhouse yard won 12 months ago with Brave Anna.

Clemmie has been installed as 6/4 favourite with Sky Bet for the weekend feature.


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Sioux Nation Ballydoyle's Stand out in Middle Park
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25.09
Aidan O'Brien has won the Group One prize on four previous occasions and has four contenders for this year's renewal, headed by Sioux Nation. 

The son of Scat Daddy claimed the Norfolk Stakes at Royal Ascot in June and followed up in the Phoenix Stakes at the Curragh.

The Ballydoyle handler could also call on Declarationofpeace, Fleet Review and U S Navy Flag.


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Nelson has Royal Lodge Option
Nelson leads the field in the Willis Towers Watson Champions Juvenile Stakes
25.09
Nelson could attempt to follow in his famous father's hoofprints on Saturday after being left in the entries for the Juddmonte Royal Lodge Stakes at Newmarket.

The two-year-old colt, whose sire Frankel won the mile Group Two contest when it was run at Ascot in 2010, is one of six possibles for trainer Aidan O'Brien.

Futurity Stakes winner Rostropovich, Berkeley Square, Coat Of Arms, Mendelssohn and Threeandfourpence complete the sextet of entries for the Ballydoyle handler.


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Impressive Saxon Warrior makes it 17 Beresford Stakes for Aidan



Saxon Warrior kept his unbeaten record intact and provided trainer Aidan O'Brien with his 17th victory in the Juddmonte Beresford Stakes at Naas.

The County Tipperary handler had claimed the prestigious juvenile prize on a remarkable 16 occasions in the last 21 years, with Septimus (2005), St Nicholas Abbey (2009) and last year's hero Capri among those on the roll of honour for Ballydoyle.

Saxon Warrior, a son of Japanese superstar Deep Impact, created a huge impression on his racecourse debut at the Curragh a month ago and was all the rage as the 5/6 favourite to follow up in the Group Two event under Ryan Moore.

Kew Gardens, a stablemate of the winner, took the five-strong field along for much of the one-mile journey before Saxon Warrior hit the front a furlong out.

Another Ballydoyle inmate Delano Roosevelt and Brendan Duke's pride and joy Warm The Voice battled it out down the centre of the track, but neither could lay a glove on Saxon Warrior, who was pushed out to score a shade cosily by two and a half lengths.

Delano Roosevelt just beat Warm The Voice to the runner-up spot, with Kew Gardens not far away in fourth and Riyazan last of the five.

Recent St Leger winner Capri won the Beresford Stakes for O'Brien last year and Sky Bet reacted to the win by cutting Saxon Warrior to 10/1 from 14s for the 2018 Investec Derby. 

O'Brien said afterwards: "Ryan was delighted with him. We were worried about the ground and Ryan said it's not his ground but he was very happy with him. He travelled very strong and quickened very well.

"He can run again but he doesn't have to. Ryan said he had plenty of speed and felt very pacey, and we always thought he would stay. He's a classic colt.

"He's very inexperienced. We put in the two horses (against him) and they are going to be decent middle distance horses. He had to learn a lot and he to be decent to do what he did.

"We are going to leave seven in the Arc tomorrow. Order Of St George, Idaho, Highland Reel, Capri, Winter, Seventh Heaven and Cliffs Of Moher. That's what we are going to leave in and we will decide after that."


©Healy Racing Photos




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15 Ballydoyle Juveniles among the top 50 in Europe





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Timeform Global Rankings European Division Ballydoyle Spotlight & News 20/09/2017 - 19 Ballydoyle Resident Ranked





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Zenny's Bro shines at Dundalk
 

©Healy Racing Photos
Zenyatta's brother De Coronado (15/2 into 5/1) gave Michael Tabor his second Dundalk winner in as many races when winning the 8.30 for Aidan O'Brien and Seamie Heffernan.

In this Dundalk Stadium — Light Up Your Night Race, De Coronado built and built down the outer in the straight. The big horse found full stride inside the last to dispose of World Tax War by two lengths.

Half-an-hour earlier it had been Sean Corby that carried home the famous blue and orange in front, aboard Ligeti. He's trained by Aidan's son Joseph.


"I thought he'd win if I could get into the middle of the track where the quickest ground is," said Heffernan.

"He needs a dead level surface - he's a dirt horse. He's probably still a bit immature. He was a wee bit green and immature.

"He has an amazing pedigree but has let us down a bit before. I thought I'd win if I was able to get up the middle of the track with him."

(GC & EM)


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Moore Gives Saxon the nod in Beresford

©Healy Racing Photos

22.09 
Saxon Warrior will be partnered by Ryan Moore & heads a three-strong team for Aidan O'Brien in the Juddmonte Beresford Stakes at Naas on Sunday.

The County Tipperary handler has claimed the prestigious juvenile prize on a remarkable 16 occasions in the last 21 years, with Septimus (2005), St Nicholas Abbey (2009) and last year's hero Capri among those on the roll of honour for Ballydoyle.

The most famous recent winner of the Group Two is undoubtedly the brilliant Sea The Stars (2008), who was so masterfully trained by John Oxx.

O'Brien's Saxon Warrior, a son of Japanese superstar Deep Impact, made a huge impression on his racecourse debut at the Curragh and is bound to be popular with punters despite taking a marked step up in grade.

He is joined by stablemates Kew Gardens and Delano Roosevelt, who were second and third in a Group Three at Leopardstown a fortnight ago.




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Threeandfourpence in the money at Faireyhouse


©Healy Racing Photos

20.09
The 1/2 favourite Threeandfourpence just prevailed in the opener at Fairyhouse, the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden.

A good second to Gobi Desert on debut at the Curragh last month, the Aidan O'Brien trained bay was expected to go one place better this afternoon.

Settled in mid-division by Seamie Heffernan, the son of War Front was pushed along from early in the straight. He was ridden on the outer with under two furlongs left to race, and soon hit top gear.

Miss Zizi proved a tough nut to crack inside the final furlong, and the winner had to battle to get past her, with just a short head separating the duo at the line.

The runner-up was returned at 14/1 under Declan McDonogh for John Oxx, while 50/1 chance Julia's Magic ran a cracker to finish third, another two and three parts of a length away with Leigh Roche in the saddle for Denise Foster.

Zeb City, who was backed from 20s to 14s on-course was fourth, while Papa Stour (20s last night and from 10s to 7s on-course) was a disappointing ninth.

"I'm delighted with him. We were a little bit worried about the ground," said O'Brien.

"He came forward nicely from his first run and he won't mind stepping back up to seven.

"We'll see how he is and it's very possible he could run again."

The winner is a full-brother to Group 1 winners Hit It A Bomb and Brave Anna.

Additional reporting by Gary Carson.




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7 left in Beresford for Ballydoyle

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20.09
Aidan O'Brien is responsible for seven of the 10 remaining horses in contention for the Juddmonte Beresford Stakes at Naas on Sunday.

The Ballydoyle handler is chasing a 17th Beresford victory within the last 22 years, with St Leger hero Capri the latest inmate to have obliged.

O'Brien's team this year could be spearheaded by Saxon Warrior and Nelson, who are both quoted at around the 20-1 mark about winning next season's Epsom Derby.

Berkeley Square, Coat Of Arms, Delano Roosevelt, Kew Gardens and Rostropovich have also been entered by the master trainer.


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Aidan O’Brien on brink of new record British Champions Series haul

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20.09
Aidan O’Brien requires one more QIPCO British Champions Series winner this year to achieve a record haul.

The victory of Capri in the William Hill St Leger at Doncaster on Saturday means he has achieved 10 triumphs in this year’s Series – the same as he managed last year. His previous tallies have been 4, 7, 5, 4 and 3.

O’Brien has six more chances to raise the bar higher and must be a very short price to secure a record amount of prize money. Twelve months ago he secured £5,648,937 in the Series and this term he already has £5,153,693 with the £4.3 million QIPCO British Champions Day at Ascot on October 21 still to come.

Here are the champion trainer’s best hopes for the remaining races:

October 7: Kingdom Of Bahrain Sun Chariot Stakes

O’Brien won the Newmarket contest with Alice Springs last year and she features among seven entries he has made this time. Winter stands out among his team but she has other options. Roly Poly, winner of the Tattersalls Falmouth Stakes at Newmarket in July, and Rhododendron, runner-up in the QIPCO 1000 Guineas and Investec Oaks, could also represent him.

October 21: QIPCO British Champions Long Distance Cup

O’Brien has an entry of 11 to shuffle, including 2015 Gold Cup winner Order Of St George among them. He finished fourth in last year’s renewal after finishing third in the Arc and may again head to France before Champions Day.

QIPCO British Champions Sprint Stakes

Caravaggio is on course to try and gain a second Series success, having won the Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot in June. He beat Harry Angel that day and their third clash (Harry Angel had Caravaggio back in fourth when landing the Darley July Cup) is eagerly awaited.

QIPCO British Champions Fillies & Mares Stakes

O’Brien has made seven entries with four of them – Winter, Rhododendron, Seventh Heaven and Hydrangea – having won at least Group One race. It is unclear which will be on duty.

Queen Elizabeth II Stakes

Churchill and Winter, who between them this season have won four Classics, head 11 entries for the master of Ballydoyle. Alice Springs and Roly Poly, who are also Series winners, are also engaged.

QIPCO Champion Stakes

O’Brien has indicated that Churchill, winner of the QIPCO 2000 Guineas and Irish version, is an intended runner. His 14 other possibles include the outstanding pair of Highland Reel and Winter.



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Stats updates 19/09/2017 
Leading Sires Tables Updated - Galileo's romp continues
British Trainers Championship updated
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Bobby Frankel World Record Bid Update this time last year Aidan was on 15 G1 wins ended with 22 currently on 18 on course for 25

Aidan the now 3rd most successful trainer in British Classics history


A.P.O'Brien Career Stats updated


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

A.P.O'Brien Season Earnings Updated 


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


A.P.O'Brien G1 Wins By Nations Updated 


Ballydoyle Classic Wins Updated 


Coolmore Classics Updated





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Lancaster Bomber 2nd in the Woodbine Mile


17.09

Lancaster Bomber had to settle for second as World Approval landed the Grade One Ricoh Woodbine Mile at Woodbine on Saturday. Lancaster Bomber also finished 2nd in Breeders Cup Juvenile Turf at Santa Anita last year.


The Aidan O'Brien-trained colt had set the pace for Churchill during his English and Irish Guineas triumphs earlier in the year, but Lancaster Bomber was last seen when finishing a close-up sixth in the Sussex Stakes back in August.


One of two runners for O'Brien along with Deauville, Lancaster Bomber was settled in midfield through the early stages before Wayne Lordan launched his challenge with around two furlongs to run.


World Approval, who had raced prominently throughout under John Velazaquez, had already flown by that point and Lancaster Bomber could not catch him, being beaten two and a half lengths at the line.


Lordan was pleased enough with Lancaster Bomber's effort, but felt a stronger pace may have helped his mount.


He said: "I thought the race was run really steady for my horse.


"He quickened well and got to the line well. He ran a good race. He finished out good.


"Maybe a stronger pace might have helped, but he ran a good, solid race."



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Lancaster Bomber & Deauville before the Woodbine Mile







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Capri stays on strongly to win the St Leger










16.09

Capri gave Ryan Moore a first victory in the William Hill St Leger as Aidan O'Brien's grey held Crystal Ocean in the world's oldest Classic at Doncaster.

The son of Galileo became the first horse since Triple Crown hero Nijinsky in 1970 to win both the Irish Derby and the St Leger, in his first race since his success at the Curragh 77 days earlier.

The Anvil soon established a big lead from his three O'Brien-trained stablemates, led by Douglas Macarthur with Venice Beach and Capri just behind. Then there was a gap to John Gosden's duo of Stradivarius and Coronet.

The Anvil was a spent force tuning for home into the long straight, where Douglas Macarthur briefly took over.

Stradivarius looked a real threat on the far rail, but Capri (3/1 favourite) was already close to the pace and set sail for home inside the final quarter-mile.

Crystal Ocean made a strong run from the rear, but Capri held the aces to score by half a length and give O'Brien a fifth win in the race. Stradivarius was just a short-head away in third.Moore said: "He's a very good horse, he's an Irish Derby winner and a Group Two-winning two-year-old as well. He's run in a lot of good races this year, he's a very good horse and very honest.

"When Crystal Ocean came to him, he dug in. He's done very little wrong in his career and has progressed from race to race.

"It was a very good performance in a very good St Leger."

On winning the race for the first time, he told ITV Racing: "It means you have to win it again, really."






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Seahenge wins the Group 2 Champagne stakes

Seahenge (far right) wins the Champagne Stakes








16.09


Seahenge (8/1) won the Howcroft Industrial Supplies Champagne Stakes for trainer Aidan O'Brien, ridden by his son, Donnacha and Sky Bet make him a 25/1 chance for the 2018 QIPCO 2000 Guineas at Newmarket.

While Ryan Moore was aboard the shorter-priced Mendelssohn, it was Donnacha O'Brien who landed the Group Two honours on Seahenge, who had only finished fifth behind Expert Eye in the Vintage Stakes at Goodwood.

Dream Today and Hey Gaman were the two leaders until the race got serious in the final quarter mile.

Mendelssohn was one of the first beaten, while Seahenge came with a strong challenge to pip the gritty Hey Gaman by a neck. Mythical Magic was third.

His rider said: "He was very aggressive going down to the start, so I wanted to take my time with him.

"When they quickened from the three I just got caught a bit, but I let him find his feet and when he picked up two out I thought he'd get there.

"My lad will be suited with stepping up in trip again and I think he's a nice horse."




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Aidan outlines some of his plans for the future

16.09

The Pentagon a bay son of Galileo and who is currently the 10-1 favourite for the Group 1 Investec Derby in 2018, could run his last race of the season in the Group 1 Racing Post Trophy at Doncaster next month according to his trainer Aidan O'Brien.

The Colt created a big visual impression when winning a seven furlong maiden at the Curragh back in July by eight and a half lengths on only his second start, where he made all that day under Ana O'Brien.

He then followed that up over the same trip in the Group 3 JRA Tyros Stakes at Leopardstown when he was ridden by Ryan Moore, he has described The Pentagon as the most exciting Ballydoyle juvenile colt he has ridden so far this year.

Aidan said: "The Pentagon will have another run this season and we're looking at the Racing Post Trophy or possibly the Dewhurst for him."

Two of Aidan's previous seven winners of the Group 1 Racing Post Trophy , High Chaparral and Camelot both went on to land the Group 1 Investec Derby.

He also revealed the plans for some of his other juvenile colts, Aidan nominated the Group 1 Dewhurst Stakes as the intended target for Gustav Klimt, the winner of two of his three starts this season.

Gustav Klimt is currently the 7-1 second favourite for the Group 1 Qipco 2,000 Guineas and 14-1 for the Group 1 Derby. The Ballydoyle trainer has landed the Dewhurst on five previous occasions, with Rock Of Gibraltar and Churchill then going on to win the 2,000 Guineas.

Gustav Klimt overcame plenty of trouble in running to land the Group 2 bet365 Superlative Stakes at Newmarket in July, he was due to run in the Group 1 National Stakes at the Curragh last Sunday only to miss the race when he was reported to have sustained a stone bruise.



"The Dewhurst is the plan for Gustav Klimt, who is a colt who appreciates good or faster ground, "Aidan said.

But, Amedeo Modigliani, who is the joint second favourite with Gustav Klimt for the Group 1 Investec Derby, will not run again this year. "We've decided to put Amedeo Modigliani away until next season."



After finishing strongly for third place behind Gustav Klimt over seven furlongs on his debut at the Curragh in July, Amedeo Modigliani went on to win a mile maiden by five and a half lengths at the Galway festival last month.



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Update on Deauville & Lancaster Bomber after their track workout for the Mile 



Deauville after a work out at the track



Lancaster Bomber after a workout at the track









16.09

"They went very good. Really, they're just stretching their legs. They've done all their work before they came here," said assistant T.J. Comerford. "This was their third day out on the track and they're looking good."

Comerford is pleased with the local facilities with both horses making their first start in Canada.

"We're very well looked after here. Everything is top class and it's a great place to come racing," said Comerford. 

Deauville, the 5-2 morning line favourite for the Mile, will be cutting back to a one-turn mile following his recent third in the 10-furlong Grade 1 Arlington Million.

"He's run in the Arlington Million the past two years and finished third both times. He just seems to run out of gas coming up to the winning post and gets nabbed. He looks like he has it put to bed and just gets caught," said Comerford. 

Comerford believes a mile may suit Deauville, particularly based on his effort in the Group 1 Queen Anne Stakes, which was won by Ribchester who has since come back to win the Group 1 Prix du Moulin, at Chantilly.

"At Royal Ascot this year, he went in the Queen Anne over a straight mile and finished third there and I thought it was a great race.  We thought the mile might be asking a lot of him but it doesn't seem to bother him," said Comerford.

Lancaster Bomber, at 9-2, may be a higher price on the morning line, but the sophomore comes in with serious credentials as a multiple Group 1 placed son of War Front.

"Lancaster Bomber has taken it all very well. He comes off the track there and doesn't even sweat. He's very laid back and nothing phases him," said Comerford.

The talented bay, who finished a closing second last year in the Grade 1 Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf, will carry just 112 pounds under rider Wayne Lordan.

"I think he's at an advantage here because he's getting a weight allowance and he's in great order. We're very happy with him," said Comerford. "He'll take to the hard ground and he's been to a Breeders' Cup and finished second. He's done it all before, so it's not as big an ask for a three-year-old to take on older horses when he has the experience he has."


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Deauville & Lancaster Bomber contest the Grade 1 Woodbine Mile 


 16.09
Aidan O'Brien has sent Deauville and Lancaster Bomber for the Grade 1 Woodbine Mile in Canada in his bid to beat Robert Frankel's record of 25 Group /Grade 1 races in a season.

The Ballydoyle pair will be running on Lasix.

Last year's Grade 1 Belmont Derby winner Deauville, was priced up as the 3-1 favourite with British bookmakers, will be bidding to make up for a string of near-misses this summer.

The four-year-old has won one of his last six races – the Huxley Stakes at Chester – but has finished placed on every other start and most recently looked on course for victory in the Grade 1 Arlington Million before weakening into third close home.

"We think dropping back to a mile will suit Deauville as his best run this year was over the trip when third in the Queen Anne Stakes," said O'Brien, who going into the Group 1  William Hill St Leger needs eight to equal  Robert Frankel's record.

Lancaster Bomber, will be the only three-year-old in the field, when he bids to become the first winner in his age group since the race was opened to older horses in 1997.

"He found the ground too soft when he ran in the Sussex Stakes and the quicker ground will suit," O'Brien said.






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Capri heads a strong team for the St Leger at Doncaster



15.09

Aidan O'Brien believes stamina is Capri's forte as the Irish Derby hero spearheads a four-strong Ballydoyle assault on the William Hill St Leger at Doncaster on Saturday.

O'Brien has won the world's oldest Classic four times and his 2017 team also includes Venice Beach, Douglas Macarthur and The Anvil.

"Capri is a horse we always thought would stay further than a mile and a half and he's in good form," the champion trainer told At The Races.

"He had a break after the Irish Derby. We were playing with the idea of running him in the Voltigeur, but we knew that he would have a 5lb penalty and his scope wasn't 100 per cent, so we just decided to leave him.

"The Irish Derby was a very truly-run race. He was handy all the way, he kicked and kept going. I don't think he was relenting at the line."

Venice Beach goes to Town Moor on the back of playing second fiddle to the impressive Cracksman in the Great Voltigeur Stakes at York.

"Venice Beach is a horse we always thought would stay further than a mile and a half as well," said O'Brien.

"He had a very good run in France and we gave him a little bit of an easy time going to the Voltigeur, kind of using it to bring him on for the Leger, rather than the Voltigeur being the be-all and end-all.

"He ran a good race and he will have come forward. We look forward to seeing him the next day."

Douglas Macarthur has a bit to find after finishing fourth in the Voltigeur, but O'Brien is expecting an improved performance.

"Douglas Macarthur had an easy time after the Irish Derby and we were also using the Voltigeur as a stepping stone to Doncaster for him," he said.

"He's well and we were very happy with his run. We put a hood on him so that he would be relaxed when we went a mile and six with him."

The Anvil has been well beaten in the English and Irish Derby since finishing third to Venice Beach in the Chester Vase.

"The Anvil is a straightforward, solid horse who likes nice ground. He'll stay a mile and six and might even stay two miles," said O'Brien.

O'Brien's son Joseph saddles Rekindling, and said: " He's in good form and gets the trip well. He ran well the last day at the Curragh. We're just hoping the ground isn't too soft for him. It's a very good race but we're hopeful."




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Music Box wins the Group 3 Sceptre stakes at Doncaster





 


15.09


Aidan O'Brien and Ryan Moore combined to land the Japan Racing Association Sceptre Stakes with the consistent Music Box The daughter of Invincible Spirit was unraced as a juvenile, but has made up for lost time this season having already run 15 times prior to this Group Three test.

She had managed three previous victories, including a Listed success at the Galway Festival, and had been placed on a further nine occasions.

The 8/1 shot was settled in behind the pacesetters by Moore before launching her challenge on the far side of the track.

The strong-travelling Eternally did her best to bridge the gap closer to the stands side, but Music Box was always doing enough and passed the post a length to the good. Eternally held on to the runner-up spot from Tomyris, while Talaayeb, the 7/2 favourite,was fourth.



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Alluringly bids for a Group 3 success

15.09

Alluringly bids to make the most of having her sights lowered once more in the Denny Cordell Lavarack & Lanwades Stud Fillies Stakes at Gowran Park on Saturday.

Aidan O'Brien's American-bred filly finished third in the Investec Oaks at Epsom and sixth in both the Ribblesdale Stakes at Royal Ascot and the Irish Oaks at the Curragh earlier in the campaign.

She dropped to Listed class to land the Hurry Harriet Stakes at this venue a month ago, but has since struggled back up in grade in the Yorkshire Oaks and the Blandford Stakes.

Alluringly is the highest-rated runner in an 11-strong field declared for this Group Three event and is fitted with a visor for the first time.

O'Brien also saddles Key To My Heart and Pocketfullofdreams.




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Valor & Envoy Geared Up For Park Stakes


©Healy Racing Photos
15.09
Aidan O'Brien fires a twin assault on the Park Stakes at Doncaster on Saturday.

The Ballydoyle handler is sending his Qatar Airways Minstrel Stakes winner Spirit Of Valor, as well as Peace Envoy, who finished last behind his stablemate at the Curragh in July and hasn't been seen since.

O'Brien also throw two arrows at the Champagne Stakes on the same card, with Curragh maiden winner Mendelssohn joined by Seahenge, who was fifth to Expert Eye in the Vintage Stakes at Goodwood.



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New Coolmore Poster - Australia's Yearling big hit at Keeneland 

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Timeform Global Rankings European Division Ballydoyle Spotlight & News 2017 - 20 Ballydoyle resident in the rankings this week 



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St Leger Jockey Bookings 

Capri - Ryan

The Anvil - Michael

Venice Beach - Heff 

Douglas MacArthur - Emmett



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Wild Irish Rose 5th in the Park Hill Stakes Group 2 at Doncaster 

Sizzling (Pictured Below) 4th in the May Hill Stakes Group 2 at Doncaster 

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Ballydoyle duo Lancaster Bomber & Deauville at Woodbine







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Capri heads Ballydoyle Quartet in Leger 
Image result for capri irish derby

14.09

Capri heads a field of 11 for the William Hill St Leger at Doncaster on Saturday.

The grey son of Galileo took the coveted scalp of Cracksman in the Irish Derby but missed his intended prep race in the Great Voltigeur Stakes at York last month after suffering a slight setback.

Capri spearheads a four-strong team trained by Aidan O'Brien, whose string comprises of Venice Beach, Douglas Macarthur and The Anvil.

The Ballydoyle handler goes to Doncaster in search of a fifth success in the world's oldest Classic.

The two withdrawals at the 48-hour final declaration stage were Abyssinian and Air Supremacy, both from the O'Brien stable.


O'Brien's son Joseph saddles Rekindling just four years after steering Leading Light to Leger glory as a jockey.



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Nelson among 20 Ballydoyle juveniles entered in Racing post trophy & News on Gustav Klimt.


Nelson winning the juvenile stakes at the weekend by David Betts

14.09
Aidan O'Brien is strongly represented in the Racing Post Trophy which takes places at Doncaster on October 28.

The Ballydoyle handler has won the final Group One of the British Flat season on seven occasions, including with subsequent Derby winners High Chaparral and Camelot, and has the likes of including James Cook Nelson The Pentagon Gustav Klimt Delano Roosevelt & Saxon Warrior in contention this time.


Aidan O'Brien is optimistic Gustav Klimt will make a swift return to full fitness after a minor setback ruled him out of the National Stakes at the Curragh on Sunday.

The exciting Galileo colt was the ante-post favourite but he was forced on to the sidelines on the morning of the race due to a stone bruise.

O'Brien told the Irish Independent: "It's only a small thing and we hope to have Gustav Klimt in full work in the next week to 10 days."

Gustav Klimt won the Superlative Stakes at Newmarket on his most recent outing and could return to the same track to contest the Group One Darley Dewhurst Stakes on October 14.



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We knew she was a great mum but this is getting ridiculous the brilliant YOU'RESOTHRILLING








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Cheveley Park Likely to be next on the agenda For Clemmie

Image result for clemmie horse

13.09
Clemmie could be rerouted to Newmarket for the Cheveley Park Stakes after she missed an intended assignment on Irish Champions Weekend.

The gifted youngster was withdrawn from the Moyglare Stud Stakes at the Curragh on Sunday as the ground became too testing.

She is now under consideration to step up to the top table at Newmarket on September 30.

Trainer Aidan O'Brien told the Irish Independent : "We think Clemmie will have no problems over further but so far she's been at six furlongs and we just had to avoid that bad ground."





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British Flat Trainers Championship Updated


Leading Sires Tables Updated - Its a landslide victory for Galileo in 2017 way out on his own


Bobby Frankel World Record bid update - this time last year Aidan had won 15 G1s ended with 22 this year 17 on course for 24

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


A.P.O'Brien Season Earnings Updated

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A.P.O'Brien Career Stats updated

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

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A.P.O'Brien G1 Wins By Nations Updated 

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Ballydoyle Classic Wins Updated

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British Champions Day on cards for Churchill


11.09
Aidan O'Brien remains keen on a tilt at the Qipco Champion Stakes with Churchill despite his disappointing display in the Irish equivalent at Leopardstown on Saturday.

The Galileo colt has lost his form since winning the English and Irish versions of the 2000 Guineas in the spring, first failing to fire in the St James's Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot.

His runner-up finish behind Ulysses in last month's Juddmonte International at York was a step in the right direction and he was a warm order to return to the winner's circle at Leopardstown, but could only finish seventh after meeting traffic problems.

Churchill looks likely to be given a chance to redeem himself at Ascot on October 21.

"He's good. It was just one of those days and it didn't pan out properly," said O'Brien.

"He's in good form and we're delighted with him. It was just one of those things.

"We were thinking of going there (Leopardstown) and going to Ascot after. We'll see how he is, but that was the plan and we didn't see anything on Saturday to change our minds."

It was another profitable Irish Champions Weekend for the Ballydoyle handler as he saddled three Group One winners, a Group Two winner and a Group Three winner over the course of the two days.

One O'Brien-trained filly who did not get the chance to strut her stuff was Clemmie after she was taken out of Sunday's Moyglare Stud Stakes on account of the testing conditions.

The daughter of Galileo, who is ante-post favourite for next year's 1000 Guineas, has several options for the remainder of the season including the Cheveley Park Stakes at Newmarket on September 30.

"I wanted to run Clemmie as it's a long time since she last ran, but I promised if heavy came into the description we wouldn't run and it did come into it," O'Brien added.

"I was mad to run her, but I couldn't do it to her in the heavy ground as she's a real good ground filly.

"It's a pity, as she needed to run for the rest of the year going forward, but we'll do something with her during the week and go on from there.

"She could go for the Cheveley Park."



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Arc preferred choice for George

11.09
Order Of St George could be in line for a second tilt at the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe after regaining his crown with a brilliant display in the Comer Group International Irish St Leger.

Aidan O'Brien's charge was an 11-length winner of the one-mile-six-furlong Classic in 2015, but suffered a shock reverse at the hands of Wicklow Brave when a 1-7 favourite 12 months ago.

He did bounce back to finish an excellent third behind stablemate Found in the Arc, however, and a return to Chantilly or a bid for Melbourne Cup glory appear his two main options for the autumn following his latest Curragh romp.

O'Brien said: "He's an unbelievable horse. He has class - you saw what he did in the Arc last year, he handles all grounds and he can stay as far as two and a half miles.

"He has the choice of returning for the Arc this year or going to the Melbourne Cup. We'll think about that and the lads will decide.

"I suppose the Arc might be the favoured option, but we'll see. He'd be very comfortable over a mile and a half if there is an ease in the ground at Chantilly."

Order Of St George came within a short head of claiming back-to-back renewals of the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot in June, going down after a thrilling tussle with Big Orange, but having regained winning ways in last month's Irish Leger Trial, he was the 2-5 market leader to secure a 10th career success.

With last year's defeat perhaps in his mind, Ryan Moore took the bull by the horns and sent Order Of St George to the front rounding the home turn.

It was a move his opponents were unable to match, with the five-year-old galloping on relentlessly to score by nine lengths.

"I'm delighted with him. We know he stays and handles soft ground. He went there strong today," O'Brien continued.

"Ryan let him relax. He moved him up a little bit and he locked on to him. He just said he kicked into gear and he didn't want to disappoint him then."

Moore was just as impressed, adding: "He's a brilliant horse. He has an awful lot of ability and was able to express that today."



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George lights up Curragh with dazzling display in Irish Leger

Order Of St George left his rivals trailing in his wake as he claimed his second victory in the Comer Group International Irish St Leger at the Curragh.

Aidan O'Brien's charge was an 11-length winner of the Classic in 2015, but suffered a shock reverse at the hands of Wicklow Brave when a 1-7 favourite 12 months ago.

The five-year-old came within a short head of claiming back-to-back renewals of the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot in June, going down after a thrilling tussle with Big Orange, but having regained winning ways in last month's Irish Leger Trial, he was 2-5 to secure a 10th career success.

With last year's defeat perhaps in his mind, Ryan Moore took the bull by the horns and sent Order Of St George to the front rounding the home turn.

It was a move his opponents were unable to match, with the favourite galloping on relentlessly to score by nine lengths.

Torcedor was best of the rest in second, while Mount Moriah beat Wicklow Brave to third place.










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Happily wins the Moyglare Stud Stakes a 1 2 3 for Ballydoyle with Magical & September in 2nd & 3rd 





Happily lunged late to beat stablemate Magical in the Moyglare Stud Stakes at the Curragh.

Trainer Aidan O'Brien withdrew likely favourite Clemmie on account of the testing conditions, but still fielded four of the eight runners in the Group One contest.

Magical had beaten Happily into second and another Ballydoyle inmate September into fourth place when landing the Debutante Stakes over the course and distance three weeks ago, and looked likely to follow up when kicking clear in the hands of Ryan Moore.

However, 13-2 shot Happily found top gear late on under the trainer's son Donnacha and got up to score by a short head.

September rounded off a one-two-three for the trainer, almost four lengths away from the front two.


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Caravaggio leads home a Ballydoyle 1 2 in the Flying Five with Alphabet in second




Caravaggio got back on the winning trail after swooping late in the Derrinstown Stud Flying Five Stakes at the Curragh.

Aidan O'Brien's colt looked a superstar in the making after extending his unbeaten record to six in the Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot, but was only fourth in the July Cup at Newmarket and disappointed again in the Prix Maurice de Gheest at Deauville.

Dropping back in distance and class for this five-furlong Group Two, Caravaggio was the odds-on favourite in the hands of Ryan Moore.

It was not completely plain sailing for the three-year-old, with Moore at work some way from the finish, but the further Caravaggio went, the better he looked and he was well on top of stablemate and 50-1 shot Alphabet at the line.

Son Of Rest was third.





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Hydrangea stuns winter in Matron Stakes 




Hydrangea lowered the colours of her stablemate Winter to spring a surprise in the Coolmore Fastnet Rock Matron Stakes at Leopardstown.

Winter was denied a fifth successive Group One triumph by Hydrangea, who had finished behind her in the Nassau Stakes at Goodwood.

However, trainer Aidan O'Brien had said Winter had an interrupted preparation and that might have made the difference in a tight finish.

Another O'Brien filly, Roly Poly, made the running, with the two stable companions not far behind.

It looked as though Winter's class might prevail, but Hydrangea (20-1) just would not give in for Wayne Lordan and got the verdict over the even-money favourite.

The John Gosden-trained Persuasive was third, with Godolphin's Wuheida fourth for Charlie Appleby.

Lordan said: "She's very consistent and has run well all year. She really likes this track and likes turning.

"It's nice for her, she's been beaten four or five lengths in a number of Group One races this season and now she's had her day.

"I didn't think I'd get there, but she put her head down and she tries very hard."

 












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Awesome Nelson leads home Ballydoyle 1 2 3 in Juvenile Stakes

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Nelson made virtually all the running to take the Group Three spoils in the Willis Towers Watson Champions Juvenile Stakes at Leopardstown.

The son of Frankel led home a one-two-three for the Aidan O'Brien stable as he ran his rivals ragged in the hands of the trainer's son Donnacha.

Nelson (11-2) opened his account over the course and distance in similar fashion three weeks earlier and the tactics worked again.

Galloping on strongly, Nelson came home clear from Kew Gardens, with stable first choice Delano Roosevelt only third.

The winning rider said: "He kept galloping all the way to the line. It was a nice performance.

"I thought I'd gone a nice, even pace. I quickened from the bend and thought it would take a good one to get me."

Nelson was cut to 16-1 from 33-1 for the Investec Derby with Paddy Power.

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Caravaggio all set for 5 furlong test 
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09.09 
Caravaggio bids to redeem his tall reputation as a top-drawer sprinter when he lines up for the Derrinstown Stud Flying Five Stakes at the Curragh on Sunday.

The sky appeared to be the limit for the three-year-old colt after he took his 100 per cent record to six with a stunning victory over Harry Angel in the Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot.

However, his last two runs have been something of an anti-climax.

Things did not work out in the July Cup at Newmarket, where he was a never-nearer fourth behind Harry Angel, and it was a similar story in the Prix Maurice de Gheest at Deauville, where he was sixth to Brando.

Aidan O'Brien said: "He's in good form. We just felt he had a few things that didn't suit him in Deauville which we spoke about, but we're happy with the way he's moving and he seems to be in very good form.

"Obviously the faster the ground the better it will suit him, but he has form with ease in the ground as well."


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2 New Coolmore Posters Galileo & Camelot  






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George in good order for Irish St Leger 
Order of St George (R) lost to Big Orange in June
08/09
Aidan O'Brien can find no negatives ahead of Order Of St George's third appearance in the Comer Group International Irish St Leger at the Curragh on Sunday.

An 11-length winner of the race two years ago, he was turned over at prohibitive odds 12 months ago by Willie Mullins' Wicklow Brave.

This season Order Of St George was beaten a short head by Big Orange in the Ascot Gold Cup but after winning the trial for this race impressively and with no Big Orange in opposition, he is strongly fancied again.

O'Brien said: "He's good and I'm happy with him. He was obviously only at the Curragh a couple of weeks ago.

"He's in good form and he handled the ease in the ground well last time. We're very happy with him, he had a break after the trial. We were delighted with him at the Curragh and we've been delighted with him since."


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Aidan O'Briens Champions Stakes Record 
08/09
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Aidan looking for his 8th Irish Champions Stakes victory.

Churchill, a brilliant winner of this year's 2000 Guineas either side of the Irish Sea, looks set to go off a warm order for the Qipco Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown on Saturday.

His trainer Aidan O'Brien claimed his first Irish Champion victory with Giant's Causeway back in 2000 and few could have predicted the unprecedented success the County Wexford handler would go on to enjoy over the next 17 years.

Six more renewals have gone to the 16-time champion trainer, but although he may hold the record for the most winners of the race, O'Brien has not always had things his own way in the 10-furlong showpiece.

Coolmore have often thrown their best horses into the ring, and some of the biggest names in racing feature among those to have triumphed.

But be warned, the long odds-on shots have not always done the business.

HITS:

Giant's Causeway (2000)

It was the 'Iron Horse' who gave O'Brien his first Irish Champion win at odds of 8-11, recording his fifth consecutive success at the highest level in the process.

High Chaparral (2003)

A three-year wait followed his first victory and it was the imperious High Chaparral who provided O'Brien with his second. The dual Derby winner fended off the late challenge of Luca Cumani's Falbrav, who endured a luckless passage, to score by a neck.

Oratorio (2005)

It was the turn of Oratorio in 2005. The son of Danehill denied the emphatic Epsom Derby winner Motivator by half a length, just as he had done when landing the Coral-Eclipse at Sandown two months earlier. Oratorio's Leopardstown triumph kick-started three years of Ballydoyle dominance, with future Arc winner Dylan Thomas taking the next two runnings.

Dylan Thomas (2006, 2007)

Aidan's only dual winner of the race. The son of Danehill won half of his career starts including an Arc & 2 Champion Stakes. 

Cape Blanco (2010)

Another three-year wait for glory followed before Seamie Heffernan stole a march on the field aboard Irish Derby winner Cape Blanco to finish five and a half lengths in front of his more fancied stablemate Rip Van Winkle. 

So You Think (2011)

Heffernan was aboard the winner again 12 months on as So You Think obliged at odds of 1-4, beating the brilliant mare Snow Fairy, who subsequently went on to win the 2012 renewal.

MISSES:

Galileo (2001)

Just a year on from Giant's Causeway's victory, most will remember the mighty Galileo, now an unparalleled sire of a host of champions, tasting defeat for the first time in his illustrious career when going down all guns blazing to Godolphin's Fantastic Light.

Hawk Wing (2002)

A similar pattern emerged 12 months later as another Ballydoyle hotpot, Hawk Wing, lost out by a whisker to the Godolphin-owned Grandera at odds of 8-11. A sweet two years for the boys in blue.

Australia (2014)

Many fingers were burnt when Australia, a dual Derby winner and supposedly a good thing at 30-100, was collared by The Grey Gatsby.


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Ballydoyle double handed in Sprint Cup 

Spirit Of Valor ©Healy Racing Photos

07.09
Aidan O'Brien's Cougar Mountain and Spirit Of Valor feature among a field of 12 declared for the Group One 32Red Sprint Cup at Haydock on Saturday.

Both are stepping up in class as the former lost out by just half a length to stablemate Washington DC in a Group Three at the Curragh last month and the latter disappointed in the Group Two Lennox Stakes at Goodwood.

Harry Angel heads the opposition as the brilliant three-year-old bids to become the first horse since Dream Ahead in 2011 to win both six-furlong championship races in the same season.

Clive Cox's charge is owned by Godolphin, who are also represented by Blue Point.

Charlie Appleby's charge has not run since finishing one place behind Harry Angel when third to Caravaggio in the Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot in June.

Opposition include the Kevin Ryan-trained Brando, who followed up his third place behind Harry Angel at Newmarket with victory in the Prix Maurice de Gheest at Deauville last month.

James Fanshawe's The Tin Man and the William Haggas-trained Tasleet, the respective first two home in Royal Ascot's Diamond Jubilee Stakes, renew rivalry.

Richard Fahey saddles Growl, Kimberella, Mr Lupton and Queen Kindly, while Charlie Hills' Magical Memory completes the dozen.

Ben Curtis on Cougar Mountain and Jimmy Quinn on Spirit Of Valor in Sprint Cup at Haydock Saturday 



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A.P.O'Brien Season Earnings Updated





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13 unraced Galileo Juveniles for your notebooks some real eyecatchers there





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This took a bit of researching - Finished careers unbeaten due to different circumstances some went to stud some got injured some passed on



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Leading Sires Tables updated 





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 ARE YOU READY





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Impressive Family Tree dazzles on debut at Gowran 




©Healy Racing Photos

Family Tree completed a ‘1-3’ for trainer Aidan O’Brien at Gowran today when making a fine winning debut in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF (C & G) Maiden and in the process foiling a gamble on stablemate and eventual third-placed Madrid.

Once-raced Madrid had been backed from 4/1 generally early this morning and from 6/4 on track in to 11/8 at the off, in contrast to stablemate debutanteFamily Tree who was friendless in the market and was returned a 5/1 chance.

In the race Madrid, under Donnacha O’Brien, battled Meaghers Flag in the home straight and while Meaghers Flag got the better of that particular duel,Family Tree finished in the style of a good horse, and edged ahead close home.

Approaching the lineFamily Tree displayed signs of greeness with a jink but went by the three parts of a length winner over Meaghers Flag, with Madrid third.

Family Tree, a son of Galileo and 420,000gns yearling purchase, is a half-brother to dual 2012 Group 1 juvenile winner Reckless Abandon, who proved sub-fertile at stud. Following today’s race, Heffernan stated “it was a nice performance. He was a bit green and there could be plenty of improvement "

Quotes from Alan Magee

Family Tree was purchased at tatts for 480,000 GNS by Coolmore & Jooste 






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Caravaggio on recovery mission in flying five 

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06.09

Caravaggio will aim to redeem his reputation in the Derrinstown Stud Flying Five at the Curragh on Sunday.

Aidan O'Brien's three-year-old looked unbeatable early in the season when winning the Commonwealth Cup but he has been beaten on his next two starts.

There are 19 remaining entries, with O'Brien still able to call upon Washington DC, Intelligence Cross, Peace Envoy and Alphabet.

The strong British contingent includes Caspian Prince, Muthmir, Duke Of Firenze, Judicial and Tis Marvellous.

Dermot Weld appears to hold a strong hand in the Moyglare "Jewels" Blandford Stakes.

Zhukova, Shamreen and Eziyra could all represent the master of Rosewell House, with O'Brien having Rhododendron and Seventh Heaven among his possibles.





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Sir John Lavery supplemented for Boomerang Stakes 

©Healy Racing Photos

06.09

Sir John Lavery has been supplemented for the Clipper Logistics Boomerang Stakes at Leopardstown on Saturday.

Aidan O'Brien's colt was widely considered as a leading Derby contender at the start of the season but disappointed in his trial at Lingfield and after sidestepping Epsom, he failed to fire again in the King Edward VII Stakes at Royal Ascot.

However, dropped in distance and class on his return from a break at Cork last month, he ran away with a Listed prize and is set to step back up to Group Two level this weekend.

Sir John Lavery is one of 20 possible runners, with Ruth Carr's Sovereign Debt and David O'Meara's Custom Cut, who won this prize two years ago, potential British challengers.

The first Group race on Irish Champions Weekend is the Willis Towers Watson Champions Juvenile Stakes.

The Ballydoyle team for this Group Three event includes the seriously impressive Curragh maiden winner Saxon Warrior, as well as the stoutly-bred Mendelssohn and course and distance scorer Nelson.



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Gustav Klimt the star turn in the National Stakes 

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05.09

Gustav Klimt is the star attraction among 18 remaining possibles in the Goffs Vincent O'Brien National Stakes at the Curragh on Sunday.

Winner of the Superlative Stakes at Newmarket, the Galileo colt is prominent in the betting for next season's Classics.

He could be joined by his Aidan O'Brien-trained stablemates Berkeley Square, Bond Street, Coat Of Arms, Delano Roosevelt, Fleet Review, Mendelssohn, Nelson, Rostropovich, Seahenge and U S Navy Flag as O'Brien aims to extend his great record in the race.

Beckford is likely to be the main non-O'Brien-trained contender for Gordon Elliott.

Jessica Harrington's Brother Bear brings Group form to the table, while Ger Lyons' Lethal Steps and Ken Condon's Romanised are other possibles


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Big guns all set for a bumper Irish Champions Weekend + Betting Markets update

Winter is coming

Winter has multiple entries over the weekend but is expected to run in the Matron Stakes

From IRISHCHAMPIONSWEEKEND

The big names have all stood their ground for the five Group 1 races and the strong supporting cards on Longines Irish Champions Weekend at Leopardstown and the Curragh on Saturday and Sunday.

Dual 2,000 Guineas winner Churchill and his stable companion Winter, the dual 1,000 Guineas winner and more recently successful in the Group 1 Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot and the Qatar Nassau Stakes at Goodwood head the 14 horses remaining in the €1.25m QIPCO Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown on Saturday. Aidan O'Brien’s pair could be joined by Poet’s Word, trained by Sir Michael Stoute, another that won at Goodwood last month, Martyn Meade’s Eminent, successful at Deauville last time out and the Roger Charlton-trained Decorated Knight, the winner of the Group 1 Tattersalls Gold Cup at the Curragh in May.

There are also 14 horses going forward for the Group 1 Coolmore Fastnet Rock Matron Stakes including Ballydoyle’s star filly Winter. The John Gosden-trained Persuasive and Jean-Claude Rouget’s Qemah finished second and third to Alice Springs in the race 12 months ago and are both on course for a repeat bid for the €350,000 contest. Wuheida, a Group 1 winner as a two-year-old could run for Charlie Appleby while Sea Of Grace is clearly on the upgrade and could carry the hopes of William Haggas.

Order Of St George and Big Orange head the 22 horses remaining in the Comer Group International Irish St Leger at the Curragh on Sunday. There was only a short-head between the pair in the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot, with Michael Bell’s charge denying Aidan O'Brien’s star stayer a repeat success in that race. Dartmouth could yet represent Sir Michael Stoute while last year’s winner Wicklow Brave, trained by Willie Mullins and Joseph O'Brien’s exciting three-year-old Rekindling also stand their ground.

Eleven horses remain in the Group 1 Moyglare Stud Stakes with Aidan O'Brien looking to hold the strongest hand. He is responsible for five horses, including the recent Newmarket Group 2 winner Clemmie. O’Brien could also be represented by Magical and Happily which finished first and second in the Group 2 Breast Cancer Research Debutante Stakes over this course and distance last month. Jessica Harrington could yet run her dual winner and narrow Albany Stakes runner-up Alpha Centauri while Eddie Lynam’s impressive course winner Muirin is also in the mix.

Heading the field of 18 acceptors for the Group 1 Goffs Vincent O’Brien National Stakes are the O’Brien-trained Gustav Klimt, so impressive when overcoming trouble in running to win a Group 2 at Newmarket in July and Gordon Elliott’s Beckford, winner of the Group 2 GAIN Railway Stakes over six furlongs at the Curragh in early July and runner-up in the Group 1 Keeneland Phoenix Stakes over the same course a month ago. Jim Bolger has three horses to choose from including Verbal Dexterity which was runner-up to Beckford in the Railway Stakes.

Pat Keogh, CEO of Leopardstown Racecourse, said: “It is great to see the quality of the racing over the two days of Longines Irish Champions Weekend. It is promising to be another great sporting occasion.”

Derek McGrath, CEO of the Curragh Racecourse, said: “We look forward to welcoming visitors to what is building up to be an exceptional weekend of world class racing. The Curragh is in great condition and tickets are still available as we countdown to the crowning of champions on day two of Longines Irish Champions Weekend.”

Prices for Longines Irish Champions Weekend supplied by Paddy Power

QIPCO Irish Champion Stakes
Paddy Power: 4-5 Churchill, 6 Winter, 7 Eminent, 8 Poets Word, 12 Cliffs Of Moher, 14 Benbatl, Success Days, 20 Decorated Knight, Zhukova, 25 Moonlight Magic, 33 Hydrangea, Lancaster Bomber, The Grey Gatsby, 50 Taj Mahal
 
Coolmore Fastnet Rock Matron Stakes
Paddy Power: Evens Winter, 5-2 Roly Poly, 5 Qemah, 6 Rhododendron, 8 Persuasive, 12 Sea Of Grace, 14 Wuheida, 20 Hydrangea, 25 Rain Goddess, Unforgettable Filly, 33 Intricately, 50 Diamond Fields, Laganore, 66 Bean Feasa
 
Comer Group International Irish St Leger
Paddy Power: 2-5 Order Of St George, 8 Big Orange, Dartmouth, Torcedor, 14 Dal Harraild, Endless Time, Rekindling, US Army Ranger, Venice Beach, 16 Flymetothestars, Wicklow Brave, 20 Johannes Vermeer, Mount Moriah, 25 Lord Yeats, Nearly Caught, Twilight Payment, Western Hymn, 33 Prince Of Arran, 50 Benkei, Finn McCool, The Tartan Spartan, Utah
 
Moyglare Stud Stakes
Paddy Power: 11-4 Clemmie, Magical, 5 Alpha Centauri, Happily, 6 September, 14 Chiara Luna, Muirin, 16 Ballet Shoes, 25 Gasta, New To Town, 33 Active Approach
 
Goffs Vincent O’Brien National Stakes
Paddy Power: 4-11 Gustav Klimt, 11-2 Beckford, 14 Brother Bear, 16 Theobald, Verbal Dexterity, 20 Berkeley Square, Coat Of Arms, Delano Roosevelt, Fleet Review, Mendelssohn, Nelson, Romanised, Rostropovich, Seahenge, US Navy Flag, 25 Meaghers Flag, 33 Lethal Steps, 66 Bond Street


                                        -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



New Coolmore Posters Coolmore Australia & Mastercraftsman

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Superstar Winter most likely to run in the Matron Stakes 

Image result for winter 1000 guineas

04.09

Winter is unlikely to take on stablemate Churchill in Saturday's Irish Champion Stakes, with the Coolmore Fastnet Rock Matron Stakes her probable target at Leopardstown.

The three-year-old filly has carried all before her this season, winning the English and Irish Guineas, the Coronation Stakes and the Nassau at Goodwood over 10 furlongs.

There had been rumblings Aidan O'Brien might let her take on the boys in the feature race of the weekend, but the Ballydoyle handler is leaning towards keeping her to her own sex instead.

"It's definitely a possibility, but I'd say the Matron is the favourite at the moment," said O'Brien.

"She's had a little break since the last day she ran and she's done very well."



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Aidan on Irish Champions weekend big guns 

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02.09

We're looking at running Caravaggio in the Flying Five at the Curragh on Irish Champions Weekend and we've been very happy with him since he ran in the Prix Maurice de Gheest.

I think and feel he didn't have proper traction in France and I'm hoping it shouldn’t be a problem at the Curragh next weekend. I've been very happy with him these last couple of weeks.

Churchill is on target for the Irish Champion and we have been very happy with him since York.

Everything has gone to plan with him since, and it looks as though we could run Cliffs Of Moher in the race as well. There are lots of other possibles, but it’s likely that those two will take part.”

We have yet to decide on whether Highland Reel will run or not but Winter will also come in for consideration for the Irish Champion Stakes.

She also has the option of the Matron as well. She is in good form and there are plenty of options with her Rhododendron could also return in the Matron.

Gustav Klimt is the one that we are looking at for the National Stakes and the fillies that ran in the Debutante Stakes Magical, Happily and September could run in the Moyglare on the same day. The plan is also to run Clemmie along with some of those other good fillies.


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Intelligence Cross off the mark in 2017 


©Healy Racing Photos

02.09

It proved straight-forward enough for Intelligence Cross as he justified his short price in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Race at Navan.

Aidan O'Brien's charge was sent to post a 8/13 shot for the extended five-furlong contest and tracked Flower Of May towards the rail.

Donnacha O'Brien asked his mount to hit the front a furlong-and-a-half from home and he asserted inside the final furlong.

Mr Scarlet, who had been kept out wide, stayed on to fill the runner-up spot but could only get within two-and-three-quarter lengths of the winner.< Intelligence Cross was dropping class having faced some stiff tasks this season behind the likes of Harry Angel and stable-mate Caravaggio.

“He’s a Group class sprinter and in a lower grade today he was able to show his class. That win will do him a world of good confidence wise,” said the winning rider.

(Quotes by Alan Magee)





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Could he be classic material SAXON WARRIOR beautifully captured at The Curragh by David Betts 




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Timeform Global Rankings European Division Ballydoyle Spotlight & News 2017 - 21 Ballydoyle Residents among the rankings



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


A.P.O'Brien Season Earnings Updated




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Churchill all the rage in Champion Stakes Image result for churchill 200 guineas

02.09

Aidan O'Brien's dual 2000 Guineas hero was bitterly disappointing in the St James's Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot in June and was a late withdrawal from the Sussex Stakes at Goodwood on account of the deteriorating conditions.

He returned to action when tackling a mile and a quarter for the first time in the Juddmonte International at York and raised his game to fill the runner-up spot behind Ulysses.

The Ballydoyle handler immediately nominated the Irish Champion Stakes as his likely next port of call and he has been backed from 6-4 to even money with William Hill to get back on the winning trail.

"It is still a decent field, but Churchill is the only one we can lay," said William Hill spokesman Rupert Adams.

Qipco Irish Champion Stakes, William Hill bet: Churchill evens, Highland Reel 6-1, Cliffs Of Moher 10-1, Eminent 10-1, Deauville 14-1, Success Days 33-1.

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