"It's very possible she'll go to the Champion Stakes" - Aidan O'Brien updates us on Minding:

Her Maj could run in the Champion Stakes

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11 from Ballydoyle Remain in the QATAR PRIX DE L'ARC DE TRIOMPHE which is on 02 October 2016 at CHANTILLY

HIGHLAND REEL - ORDER OF ST GEORGE - BONDI BEACH - FOUND - THE

GURKHA - IDAHO - PORT DOUGLAS - DEAUVILLE - US ARMY RANGER -

SHOGUN - MINDING - Next forfeit Stage 27 September 2016

Lloyd Williams, part owner of Order Of St George, has rated the Galileo 4yo as a “pretty unlikely starter” in the Melbourne Cup.

Ballydoyle Juveniles Rule!

Timeform Global Rankings European Division Ballydoyle Spotlight & News

Update 31/08/16

3rd time lucky for Tree August 31st

©Healy Racing Photos

Tree Of Knowledge justified favouritism, as he made all to take the Best Of Luck To The Kilkenny Hurlers This Sunday Maiden.

Second on his debut at Leopardstown earlier this month, the son of Oasis Dream again filled the runner-up spot on his next outing at the Curragh.

Briefly available at 13/8 last night, the Aidan O'Brien trained colt was odds-on throughout the day, opening on-course at 9/10 before drifting out to evens at the off.

Sent straight to the front by Donnacha O'Brien, the successful bay three-year-old was ridden from the two furlong pole and soon went a few lengths clear, maintaining that advantage all the way to the line, scoring by three and three parts of a length.

Ample Sufficiency finished second under Pat Smullen for Dermot Weld at 5/2, while Saafarr (3/1) was another three lengths back in third for Jim Bolger and Kevin Manning.

The winning rider said afterwards: "He got a grand lead and he's honest and stays well."

My Previews for the Ballydoyle runners today at Gowran Park

16:55 Perfect Storm - J A Heffernan - 9/4 -

2YO Colt by first season sire Excelebration out of Lady Miletrain - A 450,000 Purchase at Tatts 2015 by M.V Magnier Dam was a Listed winner. This 2YO is a half brother to G3 winner Himalya.

Only 1 career start to date and Showed decent potential over the same distance on debut at Killarney with subsequent Bellewstown winner Catch A Wave behind. Bound to show vast improvment and will have to as Mack Attack looks more than a worthy favorite and will be a tough nut to crack a race maybe best watched

18:30 Tree of Knowledge - D O'Brien - 5/6 -

3YO Colt by Oasis Dream out of Wonder Of Wonders. Dams first foal. Dam was second in 2011 Epsom Oaks & 3rd in 2011 Irish Oaks. Also 3rd in the 2011 Yorkshire Oaks.

He was an unraced juvenile and in fact only started his career at the beginning of this month. Has shown plenty of promise in his first 2 career starts. Last time out was nailed at the Curragh by stable mate Big Ben over 10 furlongs. Step down in trip does not look ideal but should be progressive enough to get the job done here. Ample Sufficiency is a worthy opponent and will make Tree work for it.

Tree of knowledge win for me today Thanks for reading good luck if you are playing

Paul (AOBFS Team)

Latest Sires Tables - Galileo in a league of his own - Zoffany leads - Power 4th

Moore set for some Channel Hopping next weekend

By Paul Rhodes 30th August

Image result for ryan moore jockey

The scheduling of Saturday week’s Qipco Irish Champion Stakes looks set to allow Ryan Moore an opportunity to ride in both the €1.25 million Leopardstown highlight and fill in the final St Leger blank in his cross-channel classic CV on the same afternoon.

The most valuable race of Irish Champions Weekend is to revert to a 6.45pm start after the decision to move the Champion Stakes forward by an hour provoked criticism a year ago.

Part of that was because a rearranged 5.45pm off time at Leopardstown prevented some high-profile jockeys riding in Doncaster’s Ladbrokes St Leger before crossing the Irish Sea in time to ride at Leopardstown.

This year’s Leger is due off at 3.45pm and while making Leopardstown’s other Group 1 feature, the Coolmore Matron Stakes scheduled for 5.35pm, might be a squeeze, no problems are anticipated for jockeys with commitments in both the Leger and the Champion Stakes.

“Last year was a one-off in that there was an awful lot of overnight rain forecast and we wanted to give the horses in the Champion Stakes first opportunity to run on the outside track and get the best of the ground,” Leopardstown chief executive Pat Keogh said on Sunday.

“We got some stick for that, and also some praise. But we did it in order to give the top horses in the top races the very best of the ground. This time the Champion Stakes reverts to being the second last race and jockeys will definitely be able to ride in the Leger and make it to us in time,” he added.

Injury setback

Ryan Moore missed out on the 2015 Champions Weekend due to injury, but returned to action after a almost a month on the injury sidelines on Friday and is in line for the Leger ride on the hot favourite Idaho.

The Leger is the sole blank on the Englishman’s classic roll of honour in Britain and Idaho is a general evens favourite for Doncaster after an impressive victory under Seamus Heffernan in the Great Voltigeur at York.

5th time Lucky for Sir Edwin

By Red 29th August

©Healy Racing Photos

Sir Edwin Landseer finally got rid of his maiden tag at the fifth time of asking when winning the Irish Stallion Farms E.B.F. Maiden.

He set off in Mid-division, made progress on the outer entering the straight, ridden from two furlongs out,he made headway to lead one and a half furlongs out, he stayed on well under pressure inside the final furlong. He went on to beat Cascavelle by one and three quarter lengths

"He's genuine and consistent. He was there to pick up the pieces if there was nothing special in it, He's probably improving and is a grand horse." Said Donnacha O'Brien

My Previews for the Ballydoyle runners today at Roscommon

17:00 Sir Edwin Landseer - D O'Brien - 6/4 -

Galileo 2YO Colt out of Baraka Full Brother to 2 time Race Winner Beyond Conceit. 4 career starts to date in maidens and has never been out of the the top 3 with 2 seconds and 2 thirds. Was beaten on debut by Group 2 Vintage Stakes winner War Decree and that form is rock solid & has put in decent performances since but needs to break his maiden now. Ice Canyon poses the biggest threat and there is not much between them hopefully Ed will get the job done.

18:30 Eavesdrop - J A Heffernan - 4/1 -

Galileo 3YO Filly out of Native Force. Half-sister to Group 1 winning sprinter and still counting, Kingsgate Native. Showed some promise as a Juvenile but only 3 runs in 2016 in maidens and she has made heavy weather of trying to win one. Having said that his looks an average maiden and there is not much between a few of these its wide open and you would have to give Eavesdrop every chance she also gets the nod from Heff.

18:30 Hibiscus - D O'Brien - 11/8 -

Galileo 3YO Filly out of Jacqueline Quest. 650,000 GNS Purchase at Tatts 2014 - First offspring of dam who was disqualified after winning the 2010 1000 Guineas. Placed on her only 2 career starts to date when 3rd on debut at Gowran Park & 2nd next time out at Kilarney. She has looked fairly progressive and Donnacha takes off some valuable weight on paper she should win this hands down but have a feeling Eavesdrop could shine today both Ballydoyle fillies wont be far away and could well fight out the finish.

Its a watching brief for me today good luck if you are playing Paul (AOBFS Team)

Caravaggio might not run again this season after suffering a setback which has put in doubt his scheduled engagement in the Juddmonte Middle Park Stakes.

Caravaggio could be out for the season

August 28th

Should the unbeaten colt miss the Group One over six furlongs at Newmarket on September 24 then plans to go for the Breeders' Cup Juvenile would be scrapped and he would go into winter quarters.

O'Brien said: "Caravaggio had a little bit of a setback about 10 days ago - he tweaked a muscle in his ribcage. He's fine now, but whether he'll make the Middle Park, we're not sure.

"I imagine if Caravaggio doesn't make the Middle Park, he might not run again this year. There's nothing much left for him.

"Originally we were thinking of going for the Middle Park and then maybe going on to the Breeders' Cup Juvenile on the dirt with him, but if he's not ready in time for the Middle Park he wouldn't do the rest.

On the subject of the Qipco 2000 Guineas favourite getting a mile next season, O'Brien toldAt The Races: "As for next year, it would depend what the lads decide themselves."He'd probably finish off for the year if that was the case."

"He's a very quick horse, but he's very relaxed and very clear winded and he's a good mover, so those things altogether would help him to stay.

"If he came back next year without running any more (this season), I suppose you could start him in some of those seven-furlong races and you'd get a bit of a glimpse then, but he is very fast."

Caravaggio is the 3/1 favourite for the 2000 Guineas with Sky Bet

Cross Blitzes his rivals in Round Tower

August 28th

Intelligence Cross outclassed his rivals in the Round Tower Stakes

Intelligence Cross looked in a different class to his rivals as he powered away to convincingly take the Round Tower Stakes at the Curragh.

Placed in his last two starts behind Mehmas after opening his account over this course and distance, Aidan O'Brien's youngster was always well-placed on the near-side rail as Velveteen made the running.

When Seamie Heffernan asked the 11-8 favourite for his effort the response was impressive as he quickened clear to score by four and a quarter lengths from Holy Cat. De Boss Man was a neck back in third.

Intelligence Cross was completing a treble for O'Brien following the wins of Yucatan and Somehow earlier on the card.

O'Brien said: "He went to York, but didn't run because of the ground. He missed a few bits of work because of going over there and I was a little bit worried about that today.

"We'll look at the Middle Park now with him."

Awesome Somehow crushes Snow Fairy rivals

August 28th

©Healy Racing Photos

Somehow was in a different league today to her nine opponents in the Group Three Snow Fairy Fillies Stakes at the Curragh.

Aidan O'Brien's filly was dropping back in trip for this mile and one contest after a runner-up spot in a Group Three over a mile and a half at Cork. Prior to that she finished fifth in the Irish Oaks.

She raced in fifth for Seamie Heffernan before making eye-catching progress on the outer to get on terms under two furlongs out.

She then breezed into the lead a furlong and a half down and eased clear inside the final furlong. She powered her way to the line as she hacked up by seven lengths.

The winner was a 5/2 chance. Mick Channon's raider Epsom Icon (10/1) won the race for second, half a length ahead of 9/4 favourite Skiffle.

Aidan O'Brien said: "She is an improving filly and Fastnet Rock's seem to get better as they get older.

"Seamie said not to be afraid of going back with her for the Matron Stakes. She's getting quicker."

This gave O'Brien a Curragh double as Yucatan took the opening juvenile maiden.

Paddy Power cutSomehow from 25/1 to 10/1 for the British Champion Fillies & Mares Stakes. Paddy Power and BoyleSports gave her a first show of 10/1 for the Matron Stakes.

Yucatan leads home Ballydoyle 1 2

August 28th

©Healy Racing Photos

Yucatan wore down stablemate Taj Mahal to give Aidan O'Brien a one-two in the mile maiden for juvenile colts and geldings at the Curragh.

Taj Mahal, a full brother to Gleneagles, had been a beaten favourite on his three previous outings and again the market expected him to oblige as went off the 7/4 jolly. Taj Mahal led but faced a challenge from Lightening Fast approaching the final quarter of a mile. That rival's effort soon petered out as Seamie Heffernan went for home along the rail on the favourite.

It was Taj Mahal though that threw down the gauntlet in the final furlong and he always looked to get there as he hit the front close home.

The winner scored by a head at 4/1 under Donnacha O'Brien. Three Jacks at 25/1 was two and three quarter lengths behind the runner-up Taj Mahal.

Aidan O'Brien said: "He came forward lovely from the first day and had a lovely run the first day under Ana [when seventh here last week]."

"He's a very well-bred horse and he looks a middle distance horse for next year. I'm trying to educate him this year and, if he comes out of this race okay, he could have another run this year.

"The other horse (Taj Mahal) is a bit frustrating and is still very babyish. He's looking in front of him all the time. He's not ungenuine but just babyish and at least he's getting better."

Donnacha O'Brien added: "He's still a little bit green. When he got there he pricked his ears today. I think he has a lot of ability. He's a young horse and he's still learning. I just had to sit on him and a gap came lovely and it worked out well.

"Even though he's a little bit lazy he's able to quicken a little bit, maybe a mile and a quarter type horse next year."

My Previews for the Ballydoyle runners at The Curragh Sunday 28th August

14:10 Taj Mahal - J A Heffernan - 3/1 -

Galileo 2YO Colt out of You'resothrilling. Full Brother to Classic Winner Marvellous & 4 time Group One Winner Gleneagles & Group 3 winner Coolmore. 3 career starts to date and has yet to set the world on fire beaten favourite on all three occasions too. Aidan will have been scratching his head over this one certainly more than a work in progress. Took a while for him to hit top gear last time at Leopardstown so the step up in trip should really suit him. Really needs to break his maiden if he is to make the big group races at the back end of the season and I have no doubt he can flourish into a group winning horse after all all of his siblings are group winners.

14:10 Yucatan - D O'Brien - 11/2 -

Galileo 2YO Colt out of Six Perfections. Dam was a Multile Group One winner which includes the Breeders Cup Mile in 2003 Dams 8th Foal yet to produce anything of note. Owned in Partnership with Flaxman Holdings & The Niarchos Family. Only one career starts to date and that came at the same course and distance here 2 weeks ago and even though he only finished 7th of 11 behind stablemate Utah he did show some promise. Will come on alot for the run and could be the biggest Danger to Taj who I just about go with out the 2 but it was a close call and would not surprise me if Yucatan was to win

14:40 Butterflies - J A Heffernan - 7/2 -

Galileo 2YO Filly out of Mariah's Storm. Half Sister to Giants Causeway & You'resothrilling (the dam of Marvellous Gleneagles Coolmore & Taj Mahal). Nice Filly who has Progressed for every one of her 3 career starts. ran out an impressive winner last time out at Gowran park in late June she really appreciated the step up in trip and finished 11 lengths clear of her stable mate and one of today's opponents Bound. Really fancy her today and think she will get the job done.

14:40 Bound - D O'Brien - 9/1 -

Galileo 2YO Filly out of Remember When. Dams 4th Foal she finished second in 2010 Epsom Oaks. This 2yo is a Full Sister to Group 2 winner Wedding Vow & Beacon Rock. Has shown steady progress on her 3 starts to date but remains a maiden and has 11 lengths to make up on stable mate Butterflies which I think for now is beyond her but expect her to show further progression but have to prefer Butterflies on known form.

15:50 Somehow - J A Heffernan - 7/4 -

Fastnet Rock 3YO Filly out of Alexandrova. Half Sister to Alex My Boy Drops & Fonteyn. 6 career starts to date winning 2 of them including the Cheshire Oaks (Listed) Ran with credit in 4th spot behind Superstar Minding in the Epsom Oaks and again put in a solid display in the Irish Version when 5th to Multiple Group one winner Seventh Heaven. Her last run came 3 weeks ago at Cork finished 2nd (Beat by a Neck) by Stablemate Best in the World in the Give Thanks Stakes G3. The only thing against her is she is drastically coming down in trip but she is the one to beat on all known form and should win this.

16:25 Intelligence Cross - J A Heffernan - 11/8 -

War Front 2yo Colt out of Good Vibes. Full Brother to Sweet Orange who won over $10,685,820 in Career earnings. Smartly landed his maiden here in June and has performed at a high level in two runs since in the UK. Has twice placed behind Mehmas in the July Stakes & Richmond Stakes both races are group 2 races. On all known form he is the one to beat and sets a very high standard fancy him quite strongly.

16:25 Sportsmanship - D O'Brien - 9/2 -

War Front 2yo Colt out of Wild Poppy. Half brother to Airman's Creed & Che Querido. Took 3 attempts for him to break his maiden but always looked a decent horse & went on to break his maiden over this trip at Leopardstown last month.. Since has Dropped back in trip twice really flew home in the Curragh Stakes here last week but the chance was already gone but that would suggest that today's trip should be right up his street but have to go with his stablemate think this will be a 1,2 for Ballydoyle maybe a forecast is called for.

17:00 General Macarthur - J A Heffernan - 16/1 -

War Front 3yo Colt out of Imagine. Half Brother to Group One winner Horatio Nelson & Group Two Winner Kitty Matchum. Dam multiple Group One winner & Dual Classic winner. 10 career starts to date and 2 wins coming at Dundalk in maiden company and won a conditions race at Navan in June. All in all he has not hit the heights i thought he would this year and has been very inconsistent but this race is somewhat of a lottery and you could back worse 16/1 shots than G-Mac.

Taj Mahal Butterflies Somehow & Intelligence Cross for me today good luck if you are playing and thanks for reading. Paul (AOBFS Team)

My Previews for the 4 Ballydoyle runners at Navan on Saturday

14:05 Elizabeth Browning - J A Heffernan - 12/1

Galileo 2YO Filly Out of Inca Princess - Full sister to Group 1 winner, Johannes Vermeer. 5 starts to date for this juvenile by far her best performance came at Tipperary in June chasing home Promise to be True who looks a potential G1 winner. Since has disappointed was last home in the Canford Cliffs Listed stakes behind the highly regarded Derby contender CAPRI and last time was beaten on the all weather at Dundalk when 6th behind another Coolmore Horse named Winter. She seems very inconsistent and may already sadly be exposed at this level. Blitz has solid form and would be my pick.

15:15 Californiadreaming - Anastasia O'Brien - 14/1

Fastnet Rock 3YO Filly out of Descant - Full Sister to Cougar mountain & Half Sister to Multiple Race Winners Roaring Forte & Far Note. She is this years version of Cradle Mountain (IRON HORSE) this is her 13th start of the season Her only win from a total 15 outings came at this very course over 1 mile in June; well beaten since and has looked exposed in 2 Listed races since & 6f handicap at Leopardstown last time out you would have to question the trip she may lacks the speed to be competitive over 5 furlongs 100% best watched

16:25 Treasure Chest - D O'Brien - 15/8

Galileo 3YO Colt out of Bonheur Half Brother to Multiple Group race winner Caribbean Sunset & Snow Queen. - 2 Starts to date did not show much on debut at the Curragh in June showed a bit more potential when second last time out at Leopardstown but still does not look in love with the game and just one im not too convinced about the price is not right for me hope he breaks his maiden but best watched.

17:00 Schubert - D O'Brien - 5/2

War Front 3YO Colt out of Score. A $1,300,000 Purchase at Keenland 2014 - Half brother to graded stakes placed Timely Tally. Unbelievably still a maiden and has been a beaten favorite on no less than 6 times OWEY But today will be his day he surely at last will break his duck because on the bare form of these he is ahead he wont get many better chances to win than this and the price is generous but ofcourse comes with risk.

Schubert is my only bet of the day good luck if you are playing Paul (AOBFS Team)

Round Tower stakes

by Red 26th August

Sportsmanship and Intelligence Cross face 8 rivals in the Group 3 Round Tower stakes at the Curragh on Sunday.

Sportsmanship the War Front colt has run 5 times winning one and finishing 2nd once. He was last seen when finishing 5th of 10 in the Group 3 Jimmy O’Neill Irish Racing Excellence Curragh stakes on the 20th August.

Intelligence Cross the War Front colt has run 4 times winning one, being placed 3 times. He was last seen when finishing 3rd of 4 behind Mehmas in the Group 2 Qatar Richmond stakes at Goodwood at the end of July.

Aidan has won this in the past with Warrior Queen in 1999, Cherokee in 2004 and Great White Eagle in 2013.

Flame of Tara stakes

By Red 26th August

Bound and Butterflies face 5 rivals at the Curragh on Sunday in the Group 3 Flame of Tara EBF stakes.

The Galileo filly Butterflies has run 3 times, winning her last race at Gowran Park at the end of July in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF stakes when beating the John Oxx trained Decisive Intent by a length with stable companion Bound back in 5th.

Bound the Galileo filly has run 3 times, and is still a maiden. She was last seen finishing a head 2nd behind the Dermot Weld filly Mujaazy on the 20th July in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Maiden.

This race is a step up in class for both fillies.

Aidan won this race with Kind of Magic in 2015.

Ballydoyle Jockey Stats ranked by wins (rides in first column)

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Galileo's 59 Individual G1 winners update - added owners & nation stats & if ever trained by APOB

Latin Beat makes it a winning debut at tip

August 25th

The easy to back Latin Beat took the opener at Tipperary, the Camas Park Stud EBF Maiden, on his debut, scoring under Seamie Heffernan for Aidan O'Brien.

As short as 4/7 last night, the son of Galileo opened on track at 5/4 before going off a 2/1 chance.

The money came for another newcomer in the line-up, Son Of Rest. He was available at 9/4 this morning, but opened on-course at just 5/4 before going off the clear 4/5 favourite.

Sent straight to the front by Heffernan, the winner made all. He was pressed by the market leader with over a furlong to go, but he pulled out more under pressure, going on to score by three parts of a length.

Son Of Rest had to settle for second under Wayne Lordan for Tommy Stack, while Cleona was four and three parts of a length back in third under Kevin Manning for Jim Bolger at 7/1.

Aidan O'Brien said afterwards: "You'd be very happy with that and he handled the ease in the ground well.

"He'll stay well and will get a mile and could run in the Beresford Stakes next.

"He was sticking his tongue out so and I used the tongue-tie just to keep it down."

Idaho for the St.Leger a snippet

By Red 24th August

Ante-post favourite Idaho leads the way after 25 horses stood their ground at the latest confirmation stage for the Group 1 Ladbrokes St Leger at Doncaster .

Aidan's Colt cemented his place at the head of the betting for the Classic on September 10th when landing the Group 2 Great Voltigeur Stakes at York last week, He beat stablemate Housesofparliament by a length and three quarters and he is one of 10 entries for Aidan, along with Sword Fighter, Somehow and Pretty Perfect.

Aidan has won the St.Leger in the past with Milan in 2001, Brian Boru 2003, Scorpion 2005, and Leading Light 2013.

Somehow in the Snow Fairy

By Red 24th August

Aidan's filly somehow is one of 18 possibles for the Group 3 Snow Fairy stakes at the Curragh on Sunday.

She was last seen out when finishing 2nd behind stablemate Best in the World at Cork in the Group 3 Irish Stallion Farms EBF Give Thanks Stakes she was beaten only a neck that day.

Previous to that she finished 5th Behind Seventh Heaven in the Group 1 Darley Irish Oaks and 4th behind Minding in the Group 1 Investec Oaks.

She faces competition from the Charlie Appleby filly Skiffle whom she beat at Epsom, and We Are Ninety, trained by Hugo Palmer.

Timeform Global Rankings European Division Ballydoyle Spotlight &

News Update

A Great Weekend

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Galileo the Rolls Royce of Sires

A.P.O'Brien All time top listed by career earnings

Leading Sires Tables Updated - Galileo out on his own - Zoffany leads Power in 4th

A.P.O'Brien Career Stats Updated

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

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Big Ben brings up Ballydoyle treble

Big Ben forges on in the Curragh Healey racing photos
©Healy Racing Photos

Seamie Heffernan dictated the fractions on Big Ben in the mile-and-a-quarter maiden and the colt found plenty at the business end, although his backers had a heart in mouth moment when he took a jump deep inside the final furlong.

The Galileo colt had solid placed form in the book behind the very progressive Stellar Mass and was sent off the 13/8 favourite to oblige on his second run.

He was challenged by stablemate Tree Of Knowledge as the raced unfolded three furlongs out.

Heffernan went for the whip a furlong and a half out and his mount kept grinding it out on the far rail. Tree Of Knowledge could make no impression on him and the gap increased in the last furlong when Big Ben made a leap over 100 yards out.

When back on an even keel, he got back into stride to take the spoils from Tree Of Knowledge (11/4) who was able to close after that incident to within three parts of a length.

Aidan O'Brien said: "He's a tough hardy horse. He's still green and when he gave him a belt he hit the rail.

“Hopefully he'll keep progressing and I think he'll stay further so he'll probably step up in trip.

“Donnacha's horse (Tree Of Knowledge) came forward too and on his next run I'd say he'll be there.”

Of the other horses that comprised his treble today, O'Brien said: "Very happy. Churchill's a lovely horse, he cruises well through the race. He's very relaxed in a race. When he goes there he doesn't do a lot, that's the only little thing you have to be careful with him. When Seamus gave him a dig today he pulled out and stretched when he wanted.

"We'll come back here for the National Stakes, that's the plan. He's a big powerful horse with plenty of speed. He works more like a miler than a middle-distance horse. You'd imagine he'd definitely get 10 (furlongs) and who knows about the mile and a half.

"Seamus rode her (Rhododendron) here the first day and he loved her and then Ryan (Moore) rode her in Goodwood and he was very happy with her. Obviously she's a lovely laidback filly, she races lovely and relaxed on the bridle and stays well too."

Rhododendron nets a 7th Debutante for Aidan

Rhododendron swooped down the outside to get the better of stablemate Hydrangea in the Group Two Debutante Stakes at the Curragh.

The 11/8 favourite began to make her move from fourth as the field flashed passed the two pole Hydrangea (10/1) was boxing on at the head of affairs with strong-travelling Rehana in second and Intricately third.

Seamie Heffernan got into the drive position and his mount improved to lead narrowly from Hydrangea with less than 200 yards to race.

Hydrangea, on the inside, rallied though but went down by a head. Intricately was a further length and a quarter away in third at 14/1 with Rehana fourth after failing to pick up.

Seamie Heffernan said: "She was ready for today. She had a good run here and she learned a bit at Goodwood and Ryan (Moore) said to get there late. He thought she was the best, I wasn't sure which of the three of ours to ride.

"Aidan said that she was probably a little bit better so he was right. The second is a very good filly. It was a good race, we are lucky to have them."

Aidan O'Brien added: "They're two very nice fillies and I'm delighted with them.

“Michael's filly (Brave Anna) got a little bit tired but she had a good break after Ascot.

“The second kept coming. She's a hardy filly. They will all hopefully come back here for the Moyglare and they'll get further.”

O'Brien's Brave Anna finished sixth under Michael Hussey.

O'Brien and Heffernan were winning their second Group Two on the card as Churchill also took the Futurity.

Churchill bags an 8th Futurity for Aidan

Churchill: Group Two winner at the Curragh on Sunday

Aidan O'Brien's Royal Ascot winner was already at the forefront of the betting for next year's Investec Derby after following up in a Group Three at Leopardstown, and travelled well behind leader Arcada in the early stages of the race.

After Seamie Heffernan angled the 1/4 favourite out to lead over a furlong out the result was hardly in doubt, as he fended off the challenge of Radio Silence by two lengths, looking better the further he went.

Churchill is 16/1 joint-favourite for next year's Investec Derby with Sky Bet and representative Michael Shinners said: "There was a brief moment when the giant Churchill may have been slightly caught for speed but once he got going there was no stopping the son of Galileo and he looks a colt of huge potential in terms of middle-distances next season.

Trainer Aidan O'Brien said: “I'm delighted with him. He's lovely and lazy and just quickens. Seamus was very happy with him.

“He's very lazy and doesn't do an awful lot in front. It was the same at Ascot and Leopardstown. He's a big sleepy fellow.

“He'll come back here for the National Stakes and there's no doubt he'll be better on better ground.

“Hopefully he'll get further than a mile but he's not slow this horse. I'd definitely say he's a Guineas type of horse.

“Maybe he will get a mile-and-a-half but he doesn't go like a mile-and-a-half horse in his work. He has plenty of boot and is a big powerful horse.”

Exciting trio to make their debuts for Aidan a snippet

By Red

All eyes will be on the Frankel colt San Remo as he makes his eagerly awaited debut at the Curragh this afternoon in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden over 7 furlongs. He is a half brother to several winners including US Grade 1 winner Dubawi Heights. He is currently favourite due to the Frankel factor.

The Invincible Spirit colt Ensign is a half brother to Ghurair a 7-furlong winner and Groor who won up to a Mile.

The Galileo colt Exemplar has been chosen by Seamie Heffernan over San Remo, which seems to be a tip in itself. He is a half brother to several winners including Blue Bunting.

San Remo 5/2 with Paddy Power, Ensign 10/1 with Paddy Power and Exemplar 9/4 with Paddy Power

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Peace Envoy tackles the flying filly Lady Aurelia in the Morny

By Red

Aidan sends the tough and consistent Power colt Peace Envoy to take on the impressive Royal Ascot winner Lady Aurelia in the Group 1 Prix Morny at Deauville this afternoon over 6 furlongs. A small field of 5 is set to contest the race.

Peace Envoy was last seen out in the middle of July at the Curragh when winning the Group 3 Jebel Ali Racecourse and Stables Anglesey stakes over 6 ½ furlongs on good to yielding ground. The step up to Group 1 company for the first time shouldn’t be a problem for the colt having been placed at Group 2 level in the past. The trip should be to his liking too.

Aidan has won this race 3 times in the past with Orpen, Fasliyev and Johannesburg.

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Churchill is the star attraction in the Futurity Stakes at the Curragh

By Red

Classic hope Churchill is the star attraction in the Group 2 Galileo EBF Futurity Stakes at the Curragh on Sunday. The Galileo colt suffered a defeat on his debut, but he has improved for that run when winning the Listed Chesham stakes at Royal Ascot. He continued his progress with victory in the Group 3 Tyros Stakes at Leopardstown

Aidan said "We've got a good bunch of two-year-olds this season. Churchill will run in the Futurity and he's been fine since the last day."

Churchill is one of three runners for Aidan in the seven-furlong Group Two event. the Galileo colt Capri is an interesting contender after winning a Galway maiden and a Tipperary Listed event on his last two starts. The War Front colt Lancaster Bomber built on his debut promise by claiming a narrow victory at Leopardstown earlier in the month.

Joseph, saddles the Rip Van Winkle colt Arcada who opened his account at the third attempt when beating Capri over this course and distance.

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Six not out for Order of St. George at the Curragh

By Red

Aidan’s Galileo Colt Order of St George extended his unbeaten run to six, as he ran out a cosy winner of the Group 3 Palmerstown House Estate Irish St Leger Trial Stakes this is the race he won last year on his way to winning the Group 1 Irish St Leger.

He was last seen out when winning the Group 1 Gold Cup at Royal Ascot. He was settled in fourth by Donnacha who moved him up closer with over two furlongs to race, and was eased to the front at the furlong pole. He was pushed out inside the final furlong beating Twilight Payment by a length and a half, the pair were 9 lengths clear of Joseph’s filly Arya Tara who was third.

Aidan said, “I'm delighted with that - it was lovely. He was just ready to start back so I was a bit worried but he settled lovely and you'd have to be delighted. He'll come back here first and we'll take it a step at a time with him.”

Donnacha said, “He is a very good horse. He probably needed the run after he had a little break. He will improve a lot for that. We tried to give him as easy a day as possible.”

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US Army Ranger returns at the Curragh

By Red

Aidan has warned US Army Ranger will improve for the run on his return to action in the Group 3 Kilfrush Stud Royal Whip Stakes at the Curragh on Sunday.

US Army Ranger the Galileo colt has enjoyed a midsummer break since his second behind Harzand in the Group 1 Investec Derby at Epsom. This will be only his 4^th ever start having never run as a two year old.

Aidan said “US Army Ranger is back after having a good, long break and is just ready to start back we've been happy with him since Epsom, but he is just ready to start off and he'll improve a lot for the run at the weekend. He was supposed to run in the Juddmonte International at York on Wednesday and Found go for the Royal Whip, but he just wasn't going to be ready in time so we changed plans. Found just had a couple of bits of work to do, but she still ran well at York second in Yorkshire Oaks, We're probably looking at the Irish Champion Stakes with US Army Ranger, if all goes well.”

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Minding's star set to soar at Leopardstown

by Red

Aidan’s brilliant filly Minding is on course to be seen at Leopardstown next month. The Classic-winning daughter of Galileo picked up her sixth Group One success of her career in the Group 1 Nassau Stakes at Goodwood last month, adding to victories in the Qipco 1000 Guineas and Investec Oaks, options for her next start come at a mile or a mile and a quarter.

Aidan said: "Minding could run in either the Irish Champion Stakes or the Matron next, either way it looks like she'll be running on Irish Champions Weekend."

Minding's only defeat this year came when she was a shock second to Jet Setting in the Irish Guineas where she injured herself in the stalls, she swiftly atoned for that defeat at Epsom before landing the Group 1 Pretty Polly Stakes back at the Curragh.

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Aidan double handed in the Melrose

By Red

Aidan runs Unicorn and Kellstorm in the Betfred Melrose Stakes handicap over 1m 6f at York on Saturday where they face 11 rivals.

Unicorn this lightly raced Galileo colt will be making his first appearance of the season, he ran only 3 times as a two year old winning once in a maiden.

He was last seen finishing 7^th behind the consistent Port Douglas in The Group 2 Juddmonte Beresford stakes at the Curragh last September

Currently a 12/1 shot with Paddy Power.

Kellstorm has had 3 runs this year; his latest run was a 2 length 2^nd behind Ebediyin at Naas on the 11^th May in the Tipper Road Race. His previous race was a win over 1m 4f at Tipperary in a maiden. He’s open to improvement.

Currently a 7/1 shot with Paddy Power.

This is a race Aidan has yet to win.

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Intelligence Cross aimed at the Gimcrack

By Red

The War Front colt Intelligence Cross faces a field of 10 when he runs in the

Group 2 Irish Thoroughbred Marketing Gimcrack stakes tomorrow at York.

This is his 5^th run since the beginning of June, winning one, being second twice and

3^rd once. His last run was in the Group 2 Qatar Richmond stakes where he finished

3 ¼ lengths 3^rd behind Mehmas. He faces tough opposition from the Charlie Appleby

Blue Point who was just in front of him behind Mehmas and the Mark Johnston trained The Last Lion.

Aidan has won this in the past with Mull of Kintyre (1999) and Rock of Gibraltar (2001)

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Wings of Eagles gives his sire a boost

By Red

Wings of Eagles gave his sire Pour Moi a boost when winning the Irish Stallion farms EBF Median Auction Maiden at Killarney.

He chased the leaders lying in 3rd, he was pushed along to close over 2 furlongs out, he led over 1 furlong out, he was very green, he stayed on well, led 100 yards out and was going away at the finish.

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Colm in Seventh Heaven as he wins his first Yorkshire Oaks

By Red

Seventh Heaven led home an Aidan one-two- four with an authoritative success in the Group 1 Darley Yorkshire Oaks Giving Aidan a fourth success in the race and Galileo a second.

The daughter of Galileo who landed the Group 1 Darley Irish Oaks on her last start added another Group One to her haul, when producing a powerful run to overhaul Queen's Trust at the furlong pole and stretch clear for a commanding 2 ¾ lengths victory.

Stablemate Found needed the run on her return from an absence, travelled well for a long way and came through for second, ahead of Queen's Trust with Pretty Perfect the Ballydoyle pacemaker back in 4th.

Colm said “She's a very good filly and was a Classic winner getting the weight allowance from the older fillies. She's tough and genuine with a great temperament and beautiful action.”

Sky Bet makes Seventh Heaven 5/1 from 12/1 for the Qipco Filly & Mares Stakes on Champions Day at Ascot and 16/1 for the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe at Longchamp

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Aidan Breaks through the £5m barrier

By Red

Aidan O'Brien smashed through the £5 million prize-money barrier thanks to the exploits of Idaho and Housesofparliament.

Aidan has enjoyed more success than even he is accustomed to this season in Britain, with Minding, The Gurkha, Alice Springs, Highland Reel and Order Of St George all winning Group One races.

Idaho is no stranger to Britain, having finished third in the Investec Derby to Harzand. This, though, was his first win since his racecourse debut last October.

It briefly looked as if Jamie Spencer had stolen a march with Housesofparliament, but when Seamie moved on to the heels of the leaders a furlong out the result was never really in doubt, with Idaho winning by a length and three quarters.

Idaho has now been installed as the 6/4 favourite with the sponsors Ladbrokes for the Group 1 St. Leger at Doncaster.

Aidan said "He had a nice break after the Irish Derby and he was ready for a comeback run, Seamus had one eye on the Leger and we just wanted to get him relaxed. Jamie went a nice, sensible pace in front and his horse ran a blinder. Seamus gave his horse a lovely ride and came through at the end. Idaho might go up to a mile and six (furlongs), but I'm not sure he'll go much further than that. I'd be very happy for him to come back to a mile and a quarter and a mile and a half as a four-year-old. We had our eye on the Leger and this race came at a lovely time. Obviously Housesofparliament stays very well and he would be happy in the Leger. It seems the logical race for both of them."

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Triplicate led home a one two for Aidan from Bravery in the Ladbrokes Race at Killarney.

By Red

Triplicate made all, was pushed along and pressed over 1f out; he kept on well inside final furlong, beating Bravery 1¼ length.

Donnacha said: "I thought I could have a few winners today and thought my first two rides were my best but to get one is good. Its not nice having races like that, he’s still green out in front but I definitely think he has an engine. I'm not sure how good he is but I think he could be a Group horse. Bravery has a lot of ability but doesn't seem to be finishing his races and I knew once my lad was coming back a bit, I knew I'd get her."

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IDAHO stylishly wins the Great Voltigeur at York Report by Red

Idaho produced a very nice performance to win the Group 2 Betway Great Voltigeur Stakes under a patient ride from Seamie Heffernan.

Held up in last early on as Housesofparliament set the tempo under Jamie Spencer,

He made headway over 2f out, was shaken up and hung right, he was ridden to challenge 1f out, and he soon led, he stayed on well to forge clear in the closing stages beating stablemate Housesofparliament by 1 ¾ lengths.

Seamie said, "He's improving from run to run and he won well today, he gallops, cruises and quickens, there's a high chance he'll improve for a step up in trip."

Top Earning Horses in training 2016 Update

York update by Joe Porter Roly Poly in Lowther & 4 in Yorkshire Oaks - Found, Even Song, Seventh Heaven and Pretty Perfect, York jockey Bookings Heff rides Roly Poly and Found, Colm rides Seventh Heaven, Pat Smullen on Even Song and Paul Hanagan on Pretty Perfect.

Champion Sires Tables Updated - Galileo Clear - Power 2nd - Zoffany in battle with Wootton Bassett

Some of Aidan’s stars on show at the weekend

By Red

Order Of St George is set to return to action on Saturday at the Curragh in the Group 3 Palmerstown House Estate Irish St Leger Trial. He was last seen out when winning the Group 1 Gold Cup at Royal Ascot in June. This is a race he won last year on his way to winning the Group 1 Palmerstown House Estate Irish St. Leger.

Aidan said “Order Of St George had a break after Royal Ascot and is just back ready to start, the plan with him after Ascot was to start back at the Curragh this weekend and we'll get over that first, but hopefully then he will go back for the Irish St Leger.”

This is a race Aidan has also won with Tusculum and Leading Light.

US Army Ranger who was last seen at Epsom when runner up in the Group 1 Investec Derby could face Fascinating Rock in the Group 3 Kilfrush Stud Royal Whip Stakes on Sunday.

Aidan said “US Army Ranger is similar in that he is in after having a good long break and is just ready to start back. We are happy with him since Epsom but he is just ready to start off and he'll improve a lot for the run at the weekend.”

This is a race Aidan has won in the past with Dancing Sunset, Bach, High Chaparral, Solskjaer, Eagle Mountain, King of Rome, Fame and Glory, Hall of Mirrors and Found.

Churchill, who was last seen landing the Group 3 Japan Racing Association Tyros Stakes, is set to appear in the Group 2 Galileo EBF Futurity Stakes.

Aidan said “Churchill seems to be in good form after Leopardstown and he is the main one in the Futurity Stakes and we will decide later in the week what else will run with him.”

Aidan has won this in the past with Impressionist, Giant’s Causeway, Hawk Wing, Van Nistelrooy, Oratorio, Horatio Nelson, Cape Blanco, War Command and Gleneagles.

Last time winners Rhododendron and Hydrangea are possibles for the Group 2 Breast Cancer Research Debutante Stakes.

Aidan said “ Rhododendron is a possible to go there as is Hydrangea who won at the Curragh last time and we might have something else to run as well but we will take a look closer to the weekend.”

This is a race Aidan has won 10 times in the past with fillies such as Glounthaune Garden, Family Tradition, Photogenic, Necklace, Silk and Scarlet, Rumplestiltskin, Lillie Langtry, Maybe, Tapestry and Ballydoyle.

Snippet :- Caravaggio likely to miss the Prix Morny.

By Red

Caravaggio is likely to sidestep a mouth-watering clash with Lady Aurelia in the Darley Prix Morny at Deauville on Sunday.

It now seems like the Aidan ‘s Scat daddy colt will head straight to Newmarket on Future Champions Day for the Group 1 Juddmonte Middle Park on September 24.

Aidan said “It looks like he's going to the Middle Park, It looks like that's going to be the plan, without anything being written in stone, at the moment.”

Aidan’s quartet for the Yorkshire Oaks
By Red

http://images.racingpost.com/2014/Oct/131913.jpg

http://cdn-04.independent.ie/incoming/article34889557.ece/ALTERNATES/h342/12First.jpg

Aidan fields four of the 12 horses that have been declared for Thursday's Group 1 Darley Yorkshire Oaks, with Breeders' Cup winner Found heading his team alongside Irish Oaks winner Seventh Heaven, Ribblesdale winner Even Song and Munster Oaks winner Pretty Perfect.

Found was last seen finishing second behind My Dream Boat at Royal Ascot in the Group 1 Prince of Wales's Stakes the Galileo filly was only beaten a neck that day. She has had a busy season so far this will be her 6th start.

Seventh Heaven the Galileo filly was last seen out when winning the Group 1 Darley Irish Oaks in the middle of July from Architecture with Even Song back in 7th. This will be her 5th start this season.

Even Song the Mastercraftsman filly will try to return to the form that she showed when winning the Group 2 Ribblesdale Stakes at Royal Ascot after her disappointing effort in the Darley Irish Oaks this will be her 4th start this season.

Pretty Perfect last seen when a disappointing 10th behind Seventh Heaven in the Darley Irish Oaks hopes to recapture the form that saw her winning the Group 3 Coral.ie Munster Oaks in the middle of June. The Galileo filly has had a busy season so far this will be her 6th start.

Current Prices: - Found 7/2, Seventh Heaven 4/1, Even Song 10/1 and Pretty Perfect 25/1 all with William Hill

Aidan leaves two in the Lowther
by Red

http://cdn-images.bloodhorse.com/i/bloodhorse-images/2016/06/9e5b8b37d32147af84c91e3c5f178cee.jpg?preset=default

http://images.racingpost.com/2011/Jun/27410.jpg

Aidan has left the War Front fillies Brave Anna and Roly Poly in the Group 2 Sky Bet Lowther Stakes over 6f at York on Thursday where they come face to face with the Frankel fillies Queen Kindly and Fair Eva. A field of 8 has been declared.

Brave Anna was last seen out in June when winning the Group 3 Albany Stakes at Royal Ascot when beating Bletchley a short head with Queen Kindly back in 3rd. She’s an improving filly a winner of 2 of her 3 starts.

Roly Poly last seen when beating another of her Lowther competitors Magical Fire by a ½ length at Newmarket in the Group 2 Duchess of Cambridge Stakes (formerly the Cherry Hinton) at the beginning of July. She’s a winner of her last two races.

Brave Anna currently 10/1 and Roly Poly Currently 12/1 with Skybet.

We hope you get back on the track again but if not Thanks for the memories Champ get well soon

Sad ending to the fourth, as Shoes prevails

By Donal Murphy

Mon 15th Aug 2016, 19:28

Crocodile Shoes and Donnacha O'Brien pictured on their way to victory
(Healy Racing Photos)

There was an unfortunate conclusion to the Michael And Teresa Keogh Memorial Maiden, with Finian's Bay, who was challenging in second, breaking down close home.

Crocodile Shoes was the one who came out on top, scoring under Donnacha O'Brien for his father Aidan.

Fifth and fourth on his first two starts, the successful son of Galileo was expected to make it third time lucky this evening, going off the 5/4 favourite, having opened at 11/8 on-course.

Prominent throughout, he was ridden to lead from the two furlong pole, and he kept on well inside the final furlong, going on to score by four lengths.

Newcomer Karadeniza (8/1) came through to take second under Shane Foley for Mick Halford, while the injured Finian's Bay (9/4 to 7/4) managed to cross the line in third, a length and a half back under Kevin Manning for Jim Bolger.

Donnacha O'Brien said afterwards: "He's a big galloper. He'd prefer a mile and a half but he's genuine."

Sadly Finian's Bay was subsequently put down after breaking a hind leg.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee

Aidan’s trio in the Great Voltigeur

by Red

The Galileo colts Idaho, Housesofparliament and The Major General are
Amongst the six horses declared for the Group 2 Betway Great Voltigeur Stakes at York on Wednesday.

Idaho was last seen when finishing 2nd a ½ length behind Harzand in the Group 1
Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby at the end of June at the Curragh.

Housesofparliament was last seen at the beginning of July when winning
the Group 3 Bahrain Trophy at Newmarket.

The Major General last seen finishing 2nd behind Ulysses in the
Group 3 Beringice Gordon Stakes at Goodwood.

Idaho 10/11 with Paddy Power, Housesofparliament 6/1 with Paddy Power and
The Major General 16/1 with Paddy Power.

Courage Under fire in the Acomb

By Red

Aidan’s War Front colt Courage Under Fire faces 7 rivals in the
Group 3 Tattersalls Acomb stakes at York on Wednesday.

The colt still remains a maiden after 4 races, however his best effort was
his last race when he finished 4 lengths 2nd behind his stable companion the exciting
Scat Daddy colt Caravaggio in the Group 1 Keeneland Phoenix Stakes at the Curragh on the 7th August.

This is a race Aidan has won in the past with Saratoga Springs in 1997 and Hemingway in 2000.

Aidan’s twin assault on the Juddmonte International

By Red

Highland Reel is among 13 runners in the Group 1 Juddmonte International at York on Wednesday where his stable companion Sir Isaac Newton joins him.

Both Galileo colts were last seen out in the Group 1 King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Royal Ascot with Highland Reel winning the race by 1 ¼ lengths from Wings of Desire with Sir Isaac Newton back in 4th.

Aidan and Sir Michael Stoute hold the joint record of five winners apiece in the
Race.

Highland Reel 6/1with Paddy power and Sir Isaac Newton 33/1 with Paddy Power

The future of The Gurkha hangs in the balance

By Red

The future career of The Gurkha is in jeopardy after a displaced colon struck down Aidan’s colt. It is not thought to be a life-threatening illness, but whether the colt is able to race again remains unclear.

The colt a classic winning son of Galileo never ran as a two year old, he began his career at the beginning of April over a mile in a maiden at Leopardstown where he finished 3rd given a nice introduction by Seamie Heffernan behind stable companion Claudio Monteverdi. He won his next race a maiden at Navan by three lengths in the middle of April. His next race was in the Group 1 Poule d'Essai des Poulains (French 2000 Guineas) where he demolished his field by an impressive five and a half lengths. He then faced Galileo Gold in the Group 1 St James’s Palace stakes at Royal Ascot going down by one and a quarter lengths to the English 2000 Guineas winner with the Irish 2000 Guineas winner back in 3rd. He then finished 2nd behind Hawkbill in the Group 1 Coral Eclipse at Sandown. His final race was another dual of the Guineas winners in the Group 1 Qatar Sussex Stakes at Goodwood this time beating Galileo Gold by a neck.

Richard Henry, spokesman for Coolmore, said on Sunday: "The Gurkha underwent surgery on Friday for a displaced colon. The surgery went well and he is recovering. We will see how he progresses before anything is decided about his future." He is convalescing in the Fethard Equine Hospital in County Tipperary.
The colon surgery rules out the colt for the rest of the season.

Hopefully he can show the same fighting spirit as he did when a two year old and bounce back.

Danehill Sadlers Wells & Galileo Stud Career stats updated

Galileo in 2016 A Phenomenon (From another Universe)

A.P.O'Brien Top Earners 2016 Updated

De Coronado off the Mark

Sun 14th Aug 2016, 18:05

Aidan O'Brien
(Healy Racing Photos)

"He learned a lot from the first day," said winning rider Donnacha O'Brien after bringing home Zenyatta's brother De Coronado in front in the concluding Bar One Racing Telebetting 1800 624 524 Maiden at Dundalk.

The Street Cry colt pressed the leader in second inside the final quarter mile. The 3/1 shot had been held up through the concluding mile event but he then led approaching the final furlong.

He edged to his left inside the final furlong and was confirmed the half length victor overBalcony following a steward's enquiry.

"He was off the bridle all the way the last day but travelled well into the race today. He's going to be a nice horse," added O'Brien on Ballydoyle's three-year-old.

(AM & EM)

Deauville limbering up for the Arlington Million at Arlington Park USA From our friend Laura King (Dubai Racing TV)

Coolmore & Ballydoyle just before the Beverley D Stakes in Arlington Park USA From our friend Laura King (Dubai Racing TV)

Snippet Aidan’s thoughts on Highland Reel and Sir Isaac Newton

By Red

Aidan said: “We are thinking that Highland Reel and Sir Isaac Newton might be our main runners in the Juddmonte. We're very happy with both since their last run.

We are very happy with Highland Reel's progress. I think he is very versatile trip-wise a mile and a quarter is very comfortable for him. He has top form on both types of ground soft and fast ground. Obviously, he is a very good mover and you'd like a nice bit of ground for him.”

He added: “Sir Isaac Newton is a solid horse. He ran a big race in the King George and is a horse who's progressing all the time.”

Highland Reel 5/1 Paddy Power. Sir Isaac Newton 20/1 Bet365.

The Arlington 4

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Team Ballydoyle this morning at Arlington Video

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Aidan O'Brien Irish Champions Weekend Audio Interview

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Aidan’s runners in the Yorkshire Oaks


By Red

Aidan could be triple handed in Thursday's Group 1 Darley Yorkshire Oaks with Seventh Heaven, Even Song and Found.

Seventh Heaven landed the Group 1 Darley Irish Oaks at the Curragh on her last start last month, Even Song disappointed finishing 7th in the same race.

Found was last seen finishing 2nd in the Group 1 Prince of Wales's Stakes at
Royal Ascot.

Aidan said “The plan is to run Seventh Heaven and possibly Even Song in the Yorkshire Oaks. Found is left in the race, but we haven't made a definite plan for her yet.”

Aidan has won this race in the past with Alexandrova (2006), Peeping Fawn (2007) and Tapestry (2014).

Seventh Heaven 5/1 with Paddy Power, Even Song 10/1 with Paddy Power,
Found 3/1 with Paddy Power.

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Snippet :- Aidan on the Group 2 Skybet Lowther 

By Red

Aidan Said: "Roly Poly will run in the Group 2 Lowther stakes and the Group 3 Albany Stakes winner, Brave Anna, is also a possible, although we might keep her for the Group 2 Debutante Stakes at the Curragh on Sunday."

This is a race Aidan has never won.

Roly Poly 10/1 with Paddy Power, Brave Anna 8/1 with Paddy Power

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Deauville on course for the Million

By Red

 
Deauville is aiming to become only the second three year old to ever win the 
Grade 1 Arlington Million at 11.09 (GMT) tomorrow night. Where he faces 12 rivals.

The last 3 year old to win the race was Tolomeo in 1983.

Aidan bids to win the race for the third time, it would’ve been four but for Powerscourt being disqualified in 2004 and placed 4th. Deauville is already a winner in America this year after overcoming a wide draw under Jamie Spencer in the Grade 1 Belmont Derby on his last run.

Aidan said “Deauville won nicely the last day, he’s drawn widest again but he is in good form, he would’ve had a penalty in the Secretariat so he’s running in this.”

Currently 7/1 with William Hill

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Ballydoyle and Coolmore are set for the Beverley D

By Red


The Galileo fillies Ballydoyle and Coolmore dominate the betting for the Grade 1 Beverly D Stakes at Arlington Park 10.21(GMT) tomorrow night. Where they face 12 other rivals.

Things have not quite gone to plan for Ballydoyle since she chased home Minding in the Group 1 Qipco 1000 Guineas in May. On her latest start she finished last in the Grade 1 Belmont Oaks.

Coolmore however had her best effort when finishing 3rd in the same race.

Aidan Said. “ The two fillies are in good form. Ballydoyle slipped a bit on the home bend the last day but is in good form, while Coolmore will get the mile and a quarter trip well. Colm felt Ballydoyle slip so he looked after her. She came out of the race well, she’s a bit sharper than Coolmore. Ballydoyle would probably get away with shorter but Coolmore will stay it well, we think and hope that Ballydoyle does get a mile and a quarter.”

Ballydoyle is drawn 1 and Coolmore is drawn 6.

Ballydoyle 5/2 with Bet365. Coolmore 11/2 with Bet365.

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A Snippet: - Aidan sounds upbeat on Hit It A Bomb
By Red

Aidan was happy enough with the performance of his runner. “Hit It A Bomb just got tired after coming to win, I expect him to come on a lot for the run and he could come back here for the Group 2 Boomerang Stakes on Irish Champion Stakes day next month.”

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Reeler’s Aidan’s Main hope in the Juddmonte International 
By Red


Highland Reel is set to be Aidan's Main hope for the Group 1 Juddmonte International after he confirmed US Army Ranger is "unlikely" to line up in the feature event at York on Wednesday.

US Army Ranger has not been seen in action since finishing runner-up to Harzand in the Group 1 Investec Derby at Epsom in early June and whilst he was left in the Juddmonte International at the five-day stage, he is set to make his comeback nearer to home four days later.

Highland Reel, who returned to winning ways with victory in the Group 1 King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Royal Ascot, could be joined by stable companion Sir Isaac Newton, who finished fourth in the same Ascot race.

Aidan said: "It is unlikely that US Army Ranger will run in the International at York. He could go for the Group 3 Royal Whip at the Curragh on August 21st . It looks at this stage as if Highland Reel and Sir Isaac Newton will be our two."

Idaho who finished third in the Investec Derby at Epsom before being narrowly denied by Harzand again in the Irish equivalent,  is also set to return on the opening day of York's Ebor Festival. Aidan confirmed. “Idaho and maybe one or two others will run in the Great Voltigeur, Idaho had a little break after the Irish Derby and will come forward for the run.”

Highland Reel 5/1 with Paddy Power. Sir Issac Newton 25/1 with Boylesports.

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Aidan’s sextet in the Great Voltigeur

By Red

Favourite for the Ladbrokes St Leger Idaho is among six Aidan O'Brien-trained entries for Wednesday's Group 2 Betway Great Voltigeur Stakes at York. Where he faces 11 rivals.

The son of Galileo followed up his 3rd in the Group 1 Investec Derby at Epsom by chasing home Harzand in the Group 1 Dubai Irish Derby at the Curragh.

He is joined in a six-day entry of 11 by stable mates Cook Islands, Kellstorm, Housesofparliament, The Major General and Unicorn.

Aidan has won this race with Milan in 2001, and Powerscourt in 2003.

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Caravaggio heads Dewhurst entries.

By Red

Aidan's impressive Scat Daddy Colt Caravaggio heads 85 entries for the Group 1 Dubai Dewhurst Stakes at Newmarket on October 8th.

Caravaggio has been the stand out colt this season, winning the Group 2 Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot and the Group 1 Phoenix Stakes at the Curragh in brilliant fashion.

Churchill and War Decree have also been entered means Aidan has a formidable hand. Churchill landed the Listed Chesham Stakes at Royal Ascot and the Group 3 Tyros Stakes at Leopardstown, War Decree won the Group 2 Vintage Stakes at Goodwood.

This is a race Aidan has won in the past 2001 with Rock of Gibraltar, 2009 with Beethoven, 2013 with War Command and 2015 Air Force Blue.

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Finn McCool to make debut at Leopardstown on Thursday

This maiden has been won by Order of St George & Free Eagle also Galileo rock,

Astrology, Kingfisher & Orchestra all ran in this race & the Derby

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Hit It A Bomb returns to action By Red

Breeders' Cup hero Hit It A Bomb returns to action after a 10 month absence where he puts his unbeaten record on the line in the Group 3 Invesco Pension Consultants Desmond Stakes at Leopardstown on Thursday evening. The War Front colt won a Curragh maiden and a Listed prize at Dundalk before completing a hat-trick in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf at Keeneland.

Aidan O'Brien's charge makes his belated three-year-old debut at Group Three level and faces seven opponents including his stable companions Cougar Mountain and General Macarthur. Aidan said “He's in good form and is just ready to start, It took a bit of time to get him back fit but he's in good order.”

Caravaggio is given a Middle Park entry By Red

The Scat Daddy colt Caravaggio is among 9 entries for Aidan in the Group 1 Juddmonte Middle Park stakes over 6 furlongs at Newmarket at the end of September.A field of 49 entries have been made in total. If Aidan decides to by pass a clash with super filly Lady Aurelia in the Group 1 Prix Morny, then this race could well be the next time we see him in action. Aidan has won this race in the past with Minardi (2000), Johannesburg (2001), Ad Valorem (2004) and Crusade (2011)

Aidan has 19 entered in the Royal Lodge By Red

Exciting Galileo colts Capri, Finn McCool and Churchill are amongst 85 entries For the Group 2 Juddmonte Royal Lodge stakes over a mile at Newmarket at the endOf September. Aidan has won this race in the past with Royal Kingdom (1999), Mutinyonthebounty (2001), Admiralofthefleet(2006), Joshua Tree (2009) and Daddy Long Legs (2011)

Cara 7 pounds clear at this stage WOW

Would like to welcome Red as our 3rd site administrator AOBFS will never be offline again & she is a wonderful addition to the team so with me Lewis and Red the site will be constantly updated which is great news.

Deauville Arlington Million Long Island Sound Secretariat Stakes Ballydoyle & Coolmore Beverley D Stakes Arlington Park Saturday confirmed

AFB News

Aidan’s possible entries for the Juddmonte International

By Red


Aidan looks set to run both Highland Reel and Sir Isaac Newton in the Group 1 Juddmonte International at York on 17th August.

The Group 1 King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes winner is described as a very possible runner at the Knavesmire, alongside his stablemate who finished fourth at Royal Ascot.

US Army Ranger, who was second in the Group 1 Investec Derby at Epsom, is the other probable and a decision on his participation will be made after he works this week.

The Gurkha, winner of the Group 1 Sussex Stakes, won't run as he's being rested following his race at Goodwood.

Aidan Said “It's a great race, at a great track, a very fair track, and it is a very prestigious race.”

Aidan has won the race in the past with Giant’s Causeway (2000), Duke of Marmalade (2008), Rip Van Winkle (2010), Declaration of War (2013) and Australia (2014).

Aidan’s quartet set to feature at Arlington

By Red

Image result for deauville belmont Image result for long island sound horse Image result for ballydoyle horse Image result for coolmore weld stakes


Aidan sends across a team of four horses to contest three of the top races at 
Arlington park this Saturday. He hopes to make it three in a row in the Secretariat.

Deauville the Galileo colt is entered in the Grade 1 Arlington Million he has a great chance to add to his win on the 9th of July in the Grade 1 Belmont Derby where he beat Highland Sky by a neck. Currently 6/1 with Stan James.

Aidan has won the race in the past with Powerscourt (2005) and Cape Blanco (2011).

Long Island Sound the War Front colt is entered in the Grade 1 Secretariat stakes
He was last seen out when finishing 6th behind Deauville in the Grade 1 Belmont Derby.

Aidan has won this race in the past with Ciro (2000), Treasure Beach (2011), Adelaide (2014) and Highland Reel (2015).

Ballydoyle and Coolmore the Galileo fillies are both entered in the Grade 1 Beverley D stakes for Fillies and Mares. Both were last seen out in the Grade 1 Belmont Oaks on the 9th July where Coolmore finished 3rd behind the winner Catch A Glimpse and Ballydoyle finished a disappointing 13 of 13. Ballydoyle could be in with a great chance if she can put her last two disappointing runs behind her and recapture the form that saw her finish 2nd 3 ½ lengths behind Minding in the Qipco 1000 Guineas.

This is a race Aidan has still to win.

Timeform Global Rankings European Division Ballydoyle Spotlight & News update

A belated return to action for Hit It A Bomb?

By Red

Hit It A Bomb will make his first appearance since his Breeders' Cup win last October in the Group 3 Invesco Pension Consultants Desmond Stakes at Leopardstown on Thursday instead of running at Newbury two days later.

The War Front colt stretched his unbeaten record to three in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf at Keenland, injury has prevented him from being seen out so far this season, he also holds a host of big-race engagements for the second half of the season.

Aidan also has Cougar Mountain, The Happy Prince and Air Vice Marshal engaged in the Hungerford, but he is not certain to be represented in Berkshire by any of his runners.

Aidan said “ Hit It A Bomb goes for the Desmond, Cougar Mountain is a possible for the Hungerford but I'm not sure if we'll go with anything. It's more unlikely than likely.”

Lady Aurelia against Caravaggio in the Prix Morny?

By Red

Lady Aurelia, Wesley Wards exciting 2 year old filly may be sent across to Deauville in France for a possible tilt at the 6-furlong Group 1 Darley Prix Morny on the 21st August where she may come face to face with Aidan’s impressive unbeaten 2 year old colt Caravaggio.

Lady Aurelia, like Caravaggio is by the late stallion Scat Daddy, produced a impressive performance when winning the Group 2 Queen Mary Stakes at Royal Ascot by seven lengths over 5 furlongs in June; both would be putting their unbeaten records on the line. For the filly it would mean a step up in trip and in class, however the trip would prove no barrier to Caravaggio who is two wins from two attempts over 6f.

Although Caravaggio is favourite for next years Qipco 2000 Guineas Aidan plans to stick to six furlongs for now with the colt. A decision on whether he runs in the Morny has still to be made.

After the colts hands and heels win on Sunday at the Curragh in the Group 1

Keenland Phoenix Stakes Aidan said “Caravaggio came out of the race well, we have the option of going to France with him, but we won’t make our minds up for a while yet. He might go straight to the Middle Park.

We want to do the right thing by the horse. He seems very happy this morning and we won’t rule out France, but there is a chance he'll go straight to the Middle Park.

When Seamie let him go on Sunday, he nearly stumbled; he went to go so fast. We’ve never had a horse with that sort of speed, so I don’t know if he'll ever get a mile in his last piece of work he hit a top speed of 45mph, no horse in Ballydoyle has ever been able to do that.”

This is a race Aidan has won in the past with Orpen (1998), Fasliyev (1999) and Johannesburg (2001).

Twitter Poll Result in Bah Humbug ha ha

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Prix Morny at Deauville most likely next target for Caravaggio

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Aidan has entered Hit It A Bomb, Air Vice Marshal, Cougar Mountain & The Happy Prince in Saturday's G2 Hungerford Stakes at Newbury 16 left in the race

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Champion Sires Tables updated after weekend Racing - Galileo in a league of his own - Zoffany Leads - Power 3rd

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Deauville in Arlington Million, - Long Island Sound in Secretariat, - Ballydoyle and Coolmore in Beverly Dee Stakes (all possibles)

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Awesome Caravaggio canters home in the G1 Phoenix Stakes

Aidan on Caravaggio: "In his last piece of work he hit a top speed of 45 mph - no horse in Ballydoyle has ever been able to do that."

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A.P.O'Brien year by year stats updated 



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A.P.O'Brien Career Stats Updated 



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Aidan clear at the top

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A.P.O'Brien Top Earners 2016

Aidan over 3 Million Clear in British Flat Trainers Championship

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Caravaggio gives Aidan another Group 1

By Red 

Aidan’s Scat Daddy Colt Caravaggio was the 4 length winner
of the Group 1 Keenland Phoenix stakes over 6 furlongs at the Curragh from his stable companion Courage Under Fire.


Caravaggio tracked the leaders, he lay off the pace in 4th, he closed from over 2f out, led over 1 1/2f out, pushed along to assert from over 1f out, stayed on well, was merely nudged clear to win by hands and heels from Seamie Heffernan.


Seamie said he’s all about speed and class and he's not short of either, there was plenty left today. He’s always showed a lot and he's never disappointed."
Caravaggio is by some way the best 2 year old seen out so far this year. The win gives Aidan and Seamie a treble.


Paddy Power trimmed the winner to 5-4 favourite from 6-4 for the next season's Qipco 2000 Guineas at Newmarket.


This is a race Aidan has won 14 times in the past with the likes of Johannesburg, George Washington, Zoffany and last seasons top two year old Air Force Blue.

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Another 2 year old winner for Galileo

By Red 


Utah became another 2 year old winner for Galileo when winning
the Anglesey Lodge Equine Hospital European Breeders fund maiden 2 ¼ lengths  from his stable companion The Anvil who ran a great race on his debut. 
Aidan’s other runner Yucatan finished back in 7th.
The son of Galileo disputed the lead early and led narrowly after 1f, he extended his advantage over 3f out, was ridden and pressed over 1f out, kept on well to assert inside final furlong, pushed out closing stages, he won comfortably. Aidan has won this race in the past with John F Kennedy in 2014.


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Hydrangea blooms in Curragh Maiden

By Red 

Hydrangea a daughter of Galileo wins the Loder European Breeders Fund 
Fillies race over 7 furlongs at the Curragh by 2 ¼  lengths from the 20/1 shot Madame Cherie.


Hydrangea was given an inspired ride by Seamie Heffernan, she led when the stalls opened , was pushed along by Seamie and was pressed over 2f out, she went on from over 1f out and was soon clear stayed on.


Aidan said, “she ran a lovely race in Galway, and has progressed again. I'm delighted with that and she's a very nice filly. She will fit in to one of the seven furlong stakes races, and I'd imagine she will run over a mile before the end of the season.”

Hydrangea was introduced at 25/1 with Betfair for the 2017 Investec Oaks.
This is a race Aidan has won in the past with Snow Queen in 2012,
Terrific in 2013 and How High The Moon in 2015.

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Ryan Moore could be out of action for at least a Month

 Leading flat jockey Ryan Moore has been advised to take "complete rest" as he recovers from a hip injury.
The three-time champion jockey, 32, has not put a timescale on his return to the saddle.
"I'm not going to rush it," he said. "I want to be 100% for all the major races in the autumn."
Moore looks set to miss York's four-day Ebor Festival, one of the biggest fixtures on the flat-racing calendar, which begins on 17 August.
The major autumn races include the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, British Champions Day, the Breeders' Cup and the Melbourne Cup.
The lay-off will damage his chances of winning the jockeys' championship for a fourth time.
Moore, the number one rider for Irish trainer Aidan O'Brien, is second with 57 winners this year, two behind Silvestre de Sousa.
He finished as top rider at the recent Goodwood Festival with eight victories.
"I have been a bit sore for the last couple of weeks and been advised by a specialist that complete rest is the best option," he added.
"I'm going to play it by ear, but hope to be back soon."
Moore was sidelined for two months last year with a neck injury.


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Classy Capri claims the feature

Fri 5th Aug 2016, 18:25

Seamie Heffernan rider of Capri
(Healy Racing Photos)Capri stamped his authority on the feature at Tipperary this evening, the Listed Coolmore Canford Cliffs Stakes, making virtually all to score under Seamie Heffernan forAidan O'Brien.

An eye-catching second on his debut at the Curragh last month, the grey son of Galileo got off the mark at Galway last Saturday.

Available at 5/4 last night, he opened on-course at 9/10, before going off the clear 8/11 market leader.

Soon sent to the front by Heffernan, he was pushed along and edged further ahead from the two furlong pole.

He was ridden with over a furlong to race, and kept up the gallop from there, going on to score by two lengths.

Boyfriend Brian ran a fine race to finish second under Colin Keane for Ger Lyons at 10/1, while Intern (16's to 11's) was three and three parts of a length back in third underWayne Lordan for David Wachman.

Branch Line never managed to land a blow, and he finished fifth, while Right Honourablefaded inside the final furlong, eventually finishing sixth.

Aidan O'Brien said afterwards: "He's a nice horse and is still a baby but is coming forward lovely. He had a lovely first run and Seamus (Heffernan) was very happy with him at Galway.

"We don't have to be in a panic with him now and he is a nice natured, solid and straightforward horse.

"He could have a Futurity entry, a National Stakes entry and could also have a little bit of time and go for the Beresford Stakes and Racing Post Trophy."

Seamie Heffernan added: "It was not ideal having to make the running on him but he is a nice horse, and it's nice to be on him.

"I went a good gallop and it would have taken a good one to get past me. I knew him and I fancied him. He is just a decent horse who has plenty of ability."

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O'Brien not giving up on Taj despite defeat

Thu 4th Aug 2016, 18:49

Lancaster Bomber and Donnacha O'Brien (far side) and True Valour
(Healy Racing Photos)

Aidan O’Brien was responsible for even money favourite Taj Mahal for the Irish Stallion Farms European Breeders Fund Maiden at Leopardstown today but eventually won the race with third-favourite Lancaster Bomber (100/30), under the Champion Trainer’s son Donnacha O’Brien.

Taj Mahal, a brother to 2,000 Guineas hero Gleneagles, was quite laboured in the home straight as Lancaster Bomber fought out the finish with second favourite True Valour. The winning son of War Front battled gamely to the line and eventually gained a short-head win over True Valour, with Taj Mahal staying on for a never nearer third.

Much of trainer O’Brien’s post-race thoughts surrounded the performance of the highly regarded Taj Mahal, saying “obviously we thought the other horse (Taj Mahal) would win, but he wouldn't go on to the first road and he was backing off, before then staying on to be third. Seamus (Heffernan) was very positive about him after and I thought he wouldn't be but is very babyish and very immature still.

“Seamus still believes that he could be a very good horse and the first day he ran he was extremely green and we thought today that he would go forward, but he is just mentally very slow. We'll see what will happen.

"The winner had a nice run the first day and had a nice draw and got a nice position - Donnacha gave him a nice ride."

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O'Brien talks Minding

Wed 3rd Aug 2016, 15:40

Minding
(Healy Racing Photos)

More top races are on the agenda for Minding after she notched up her sixth Group One triumph at Goodwood on Saturday.

The brilliant filly added the Nassau Stakes to her impressive record that includes the English 1000 Guineas and Oaks.

"The race was a bit tactical and rough, but she's gone into a real professional. She seems to be fine," her trainer Aidan O'Brien told At The Races.

"She has a lot of options. She could have York or the Irish Champion Stakes. All those things are open to her."

After Minding's latest success, O'Brien hinted the filly could continue her racing career and he reiterated that prospect.

"I think everyone might be happy for her stay in training next year. If everything is well with her, I would say there's a big chance," confirmed the Ballydoyle handler.

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The Gurkha gets a break

Wed 3rd Aug 2016, 10:20

The Gurkha (nearside)
(Healy Racing Photos)

Aidan O'Brien is giving The Gurkha a well-deserved break following his victory in the Sussex Stakes at Goodwood last week.

That win came just 25 days after his hard race in the Coral-Eclipse at Sandown and the Ballydoyle trainer wants to give the French 2000 Guineas winner time to recover from those exertions.

That means The Gurkha will not take up his engagement in the Prix Jacques le Marois at Deauville on August 14.

"The Gurkha doesn't run in France. He's had two quick runs and he had a tough one at Sandown. It wouldn't be fair to go again," said O'Brien.

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Give Thanks for Best In The World

Tue 2nd Aug 2016, 21:17

Best In The World, near side, collars Somehow in Cork
(Healy Racing Photos)

Best In The World cut down stablemate Somehow to take the glory in the Group Three Give Thanks Stakes at Cork.

Seamie Heffernan made good headway on Somehow to move into third with two and a half furlongs to race. The pair then motored along the rail to lead a furlong and a half down and went for home.

At this stage, Somehow was ploughing her furrow down the centre of the track and raced in second.

Colm O'Donoghue drove Best In The World up to challenge Somehow and his mount overcame her close home to win by a neck at 12/1. Somehow was a 7/2 chance.

Harlequeen, the 11/10 favourite for Mick Channon, was half a length back in third. Her jockey Silvestre de Sousa was unable to take the ride due to travel problems so Ronan Whelan was called up.

Winning trainer Aidan O'Brien said: "She got the trip well and liked the ground. There was a nice bit of pace on and Colm gave her a very good ride.

"She ran a very nice race at the Curragh when she was coming but never got through and a bit of nice ground was a big help to her today.

"They are two good fillies and have very strong form."

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Caravaggio heads Phoenix contenders

Tue 2nd Aug 2016, 14:25

Caravaggio
(Healy Racing Photos)

Aidan O'Brien's exciting youngster Caravaggio is among the 10 two-year-olds in the Keeneland Phoenix Stakes at the Curragh on Sunday.

Ante-post market leader for the 2000 Guineas, the unbeaten winner of Royal Ascot's Coventry Stakes is one six possibles for the Group One over six furlongs hailing from the O'Brien yard.

The others are headed by Derby favourite Churchill, winner of the Chesham Stakes at the Royal meeting and the Group Three Tyros Stakes at Leopardstown.

Courage Under Fire, Edgar Allan Poe, Intelligence Cross and Duchess of Cambridge Stakes scorer Roly Poly complete the Ballydoyle squad.

O'Brien's son Joseph is represented by Ambiguity, while Ger Lyons has left in his Railway Stakes victor Medicine Jack.

The John Murphy-trained Confrontational and Johnny Murtagh's Grand Coalition are also in contention.

Pulled muscle for Caravaggio

Caravaggio might not run again this season after suffering a setback which has put in doubt his scheduled engagement in the Juddmonte Middle Park Stakes.

A Great Weekend ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A.P.O'Brien All time top listed by career earnings

Leading Sires Tables Updated - Galileo out on his own - Zoffany leads Power in 4th

Sad ending to the fourth, as Shoes prevails

De Coronado off the Mark

Ryan Moore could be out of action for at least a Month

Classy Capri claims the feature

O'Brien not giving up on Taj despite defeat

O'Brien talks Minding

The Gurkha gets a break

Give Thanks for Best In The World

Caravaggio heads Phoenix contenders

A Great Weekend

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