Squires Tale off the mark at Tipperary
©Healy Racing Photos
31.08
There was a double on the evening at Tipperary for Aidan and Donnacha O'Brien when Squire's Tale landed the concluding Buy Tickets Online @TipperaryRaces.ie Maiden.
Bid Adieu, a big priced outsider, ran a huge race on debut for Jonathan Fogarty, but he eventually had to yield to the Ballydoyle Galileo previous second placer, by half a length.
The earlier O'Brien victor was Sizzling in the 6.25, and she's a year younger full sister to Squire's Tale (by Galileo out of Weekend Strike).
"He is tough and stays well and he obviously took more time (than sister Sizzling) to come but he stays," said the winning trainer.
"He'll get further than that and was staying on well at the finish. He is a trip horse and the distance is what he wants."
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Sizzling Finally breaks her Maiden
©Healy Racing Photos
31.08
Aidan O’Brien’s Sizzling got off the mark at the fifth attempt at Tipperary today, landing the Camas Park Stud Irish EBF (Fillies) Maiden under the trainer’s son Donnacha O’Brien.
The daughter of Galileo had been a beaten favourite, at 6/4, 7/4 and 2/5, on each of her last three starts, with form-figures of '3232', but today rewarded her followers, as the 1/2 favourite, when battling well for a half length win over the Jim Bolger trained newcomer Epaneema.
O’Brien later commented “she had some very good runs and we’re delighted with her” and regarding runner-up and newcomer Epaneema’s performance, added “for a filly without experience to run her that close must be a decent filly.”
He added “she (Sizzling) can step up to a mile now and will be a middle distance filly next year, you’d imagine.
“The plan will be to go for a Stakes race next and she’ll appreciate going up in trip.”
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Timeform Global Rankings European Division Ballydoyle Spotlight & News 2017 - 21 Ballydoyle Residents among the rankings
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Leading Sires Tables Updated
A.P.O'Brien Season Earnings Updated
British Flat Trainers Championship Updated
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Rain Goddess Number 165 for Galileo
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That was some debut by SAXON WARRIOR looks a potential top class prospect
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Ballydoyle Trained horses have won a staggering 430 Flat G1 Races from 1953 to 2017
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Capri Leads Ballydoyle Dozen Left in Leger
29.08
Irish Derby winner Capri tops the list of 24 horses that remain in contention for the William Hill St Leger at Doncaster on September 16.
The son of Galileo is one of 12 potential entries in the final Classic of the season at Town Moor for trainer Aidan O'Brien, who is seeking a fifth victory in the race.
The 12 Ballydoyle entrants are Abyssinian Air Supremacy Belgravia Capri Douglas MacArthur Exemplar Finn McCool Spanish Steps The Anvil Utah Venice Beach & Squire's Tale.
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George could head to Melbourne
29.08
Ebor hero Nakeeta and 2016 Ascot Gold Cup winner Order Of St George feature among a total of 140 horses nominated for the Emirates Melbourne Cup at Flemington on November 7.
The Iain Jardine-trained Nakeeta was a head winner of the York feature last Saturday and would be facing a huge step up if tackling the Group One contest over two miles.
Order Of St George, who narrowly lost out to Big Orange in the Gold Cup this year, bounced back to winning form in the Irish St Leger Trial earlier this month and he is one of three possibles for Aidan O'Brien along with US Army Ranger and Johannes Vermeer.
Joseph O'Brien's Rekindling is also entered while Mullins' previous Cup runners Wicklow Brave and Max Dynamite have the option along with Thomas Hobson.
Roger Varian's Barsanti, the William Haggas-trained Dal Harraild and Hughie Morrison's pair of Marmelo and Sweet Selection also feature in a strong British contingent with Sir Mark Prescott's St Michel another eyecatching contender.
Godolphin trainers Charlie Appleby and Saeed bin Suroor have a clutch of entries between them, including Ebor third Natural Scenery for the latter handler, with Hugo Palmer eyeing the race for Wall Of Fire.
Ed Dunlop, who finished second three times with Red Cadeaux, has another possible this year in Red Verdon while last year's winner Almandin is on course to defend his title for Robert Hickmott.
The likes of Red Verdon, Marmelo, Rekindling and Johannes Vermeer are also entered in the BMW Caulfield Cup, in which Mullins has Riven Light too.
A total of 142 horses have been entered for the October 21 contest and Racing Victoria's Greg Carpenter is thrilled with the initial entries for both races.
He said: "We're delighted with the nominations for this year's Caulfield and Melbourne Cups with international representation once again very strong.
"To have entries from seven international jurisdictions for our two premier handicaps is a great advertisement for the Spring Racing Carnival and Victorian racing.
"I am very encouraged by the number of international trainers with entries who have not travelled to Melbourne before and we look forward to welcoming them here and showcasing what the Spring Racing Carnival has to offer."
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Irish Champion Stakes Option for Churchill
28.08
Churchill could have his next start in the QIPCO Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown on September 9.
The dual 2000 Guineas winner, who was forced to miss the Sussex Stakes following a downpour at Glorious Goodwood, ran with credit at York when finding only Ulysses too good in the Juddmonte International, on what was his first try at a trip beyond a mile.
Trainer Aidan O'Brien said: "We were very happy with Churchill. When we missed Goodwood, it just messed us up a little bit, but we we're very happy with the run. I would imagine that he'll come forward from it."
When it was put to O'Brien that he stayed the extended mile and a quarter well, he added: "I'd say he did. He was never a horse to wilt, anyway. I think the run will bring him forward.
"We're thinking of the Irish Champion, but we'll see how he is." -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rain Goddess too good in Snow Fairy Stakes
Rain Goddess made it a treble on the card for Aidan O'Brien, as she took the Group 3 Snow Fairy Fillies Stakes.
A good second in the Sandringham at Royal Ascot in June, the daughter of Galileo again filled the runner-up spot in the Pretty Polly and the Irish Oaks.
She was a disappointing eighth in the Beverly D. Stakes at Arlington on her last start, and was sent off an 11/4 joint-favourite this afternoon.
Ryan Moore, who earlier took the third on U S Navy Flag, was aboard the bay victor, and she was settled in second as stable mate Key To My Heart set the pace.
The winner ridden to challenge from the furlong pole, and soon edged to the front, keeping on well in the closing stages to score by half a length.
The Michael Stoute trained Intimation was the other joint-favourite, and she kept on well to take second under Colin Keane.
Fellow UK raider Dawn Of Hope (8/1) was another half a length back in third for Andrea Atzeni and Roger Varian.
O'Brien, who won earlier with Saxon Warrior and U S Navy Flag, said afterwards: "It was great to get her back. She's a very well bred filly and Ryan gave her a great ride.
"The last day in American she was just drawn out a little bit too far.
"She had very good form as she was placed in two Group Ones. To win a Group 3 is very important to her.
"That's about her trip. Even though she ran over a mile-and-a-half I'd say probably a mile-and-a-furlong or a mile-and-a-quarter is her trip.
"The Blandford looks perfect for her. After winning that we can travel with her, it's a big help. The pressure is off once she's won a group race.
"The Blandford then you'd never know she could go for the fillies race in America at the end. I think it's a mile-and-a-furlong this year."
Additional reporting by Gary Carson
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US Navy Flag Impresses in Round Tower Stakes
After winning the opener with Saxon Warrior, Aidan O'Brien doubled-up with U S Navy Flag in the Group 3 Plusvital Round Tower Stakes.
The son of War Front won his maiden over the course and distance on July 1st, and since finished second in the Group 2 July Stakes at Newmarket, before coming home in fourth in the Group 1 Phoenix Stakes.
As short as 4/5 this morning, he opened on-course at 11/8, before going off the 5/4 favourite under Ryan Moore.
Sent straight to the front by Moore, the bay colt made all, and was ridden out inside the final furlong, going on to score easily by six lengths.
Leopardstown maiden winner Landshark finished second at 7/2 under Colm O'Donoghue for Jessica Harrington, while Ball Girl was a neck back in third for Ger Lyons and Colin Keane at 9/2.
"You'd be delighted with him. We were going to go to the Morny and the Gimcrack with him but we waited as it was nicer ground here," said O'Brien.
"He's a fast horse and he keeps going. I'd imagine he'll go for the Middle Park or something like that. I'd say that's where he'll probably go.
"Good ground is only an advantage. I wouldn't think he's a soft ground horse as he's a very good mover and he's fast.
"You'd say he's progressed from his last run. He galloped out well there."
Additional reporting by Gary Carson
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©Healy Racing Photos
Newcomer Saxon Warrior ran out an impressive winner of the opener at the Curragh, the Irish Times Irish EBF Maiden.
Aidan O'Brien was responsible for the winner, while he also saddled the 8/11 favourite Christopher Robin who finished a disappointing seventh under Ryan Moore.
The Japanese bred winner is a son of Deep Impact, and is out of Group 1 winner Maybe. He was available at 12s last night, opening on-course at 10s before going off an 8/1 chance.
Settled towards rear by Donnacha O'Brien, the bay victor was switched to the outer from the two furlong pole.
He was pushed along with over a furlong left to race, and swept through to lead in the final 100 yards, going on to score impressively by three and a quarter lengths.
Fellow newcomers filled the second and third positions, with Jim Bolger's Meagher's Flag (20/1) in the runner-up spot, half a length in front of Sacren Knight (14/1) who is also trained by Aidan O'Brien.
"It's lovely to find them. He looks a very smart colt," said O'Brien.
"He was just ready to come racing. Donnacha said when he pulled him out he took off. That's great.
"He really quickened and when you run those horses you are always hoping you'll find something.
"He's a big powerful horse. The dam was very good. Donnacha was very impressed with and we'll try not to go too quick with him.
"He should come forward and we can do a lot of stuff with him. We can come back for the Beresford or go seven furlongs."
Additional reporting by Gary Carson
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Idaho defeated in the Sword Dancer at Saratoga he ended up finishing 6th.
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New Coolmore Posters The Magnificent GALILEO & WAR COMMAND
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A.P.O'Brien Top Earners 2017 Updated after Idaho Run
A.P.O'Brien Season Earnings Updated
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Congratulations to Aidan on his 2100th Flat Race Winner yesterday
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Idaho well beaten in the Sword Dancer at Saratoga was up with the pace early and got swamped late on finishing 6th.
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A.P.O'Brien Top Earning Horses 2017 Updated
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Churchill 2nd Cliffs of Moher 4th in the Juddmonte International another multiple Group One winner for Galileo as Ulysses wins
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Venice Beach 2nd in The Great Voltigueur Spanish Steps & Douglas MacArthur unplaced
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Abyssinian brings up Ballydoyle Kilarney double
Aidan and Donnacha O'Brien completed a first and last race Killarney double when the 8/13 chance Abyssinian (backed in from 4/5) made all in the Irish Examiner Race.
The Galileo colt had track experience having finished second here in July. That effort preceded a Leopardstown victory on August 10th.
Following on from the win of Ballydoyle's Kew Gardens in the opener, here Abyssinian looked a little vulnerable up the straight.
However when the need was greatest he found plenty to come home three and three parts of a length in front of Sea Swift.
"He's lazy and only finds what he has to. When he heard another horse coming he found another gear," commented the winning rider.
"I didn't want to let it turn into a sprint, and let him roll along at his own pace. I'd say a mile and six will probably be his trip.
"There are plenty of gears there when you go looking for them, and he handles all sorts of ground."
(AM & EM)
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Impressive Kew Gardens gets off the mark at Kilarney
©Healy Racing Photos
Kew Gardens looked the obvious one for the opening Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden at Killarney. The Galileo colt duly prevailed at odds of 4/6.
Donnacha O'Brien never had to get serious with the son of 2004 Moyglare Stud Stakes heroine Chelsea Rose.
The Ballydoyle juvenile, previously seventh at the Curragh, asserted a furlong out to defeat Tonkin by four and half lengths.
Money on the other Aidan O'Brien horse, Freetown (13/2 into 3/1), went astray as he never threatened in fifth.
Donnacha O'Brien said: "He's a nice horse and will make a lovely stayer. He handled the ground well and has done it nicely.
"He broke a bit slow but I took him to the outside and let him go his own pace. I'd say he'll be a mile and a half horse next year, and maybe even further but he has a bit of class."
Pat Smullen (3rd on Militry Decoration) meanwhile reported: "The ground is pretty heavy down the back but it's a bit better in the straight."
(AM & EM)
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Star Fillies set to line up in mouthwatering Moyglare
23.08
Aidan O'Brien's three fillies who ran in the Debutante Stakes at the weekend have all been handed the Moyglare Stud Stakes as their next assignment - along with stable companion Clemmie.
Magical caused an upset when making all at the Curragh, with the Ryan Moore-ridden Happily second and the favourite September only fourth.
O'Brien feels the result could be different on faster ground - but the way Clemmie won a Group Two at Newmarket with ease will have plenty backing her to come out on top.
"Donnacha (O'Brien) was delighted with Magical in the Debutante Stakes on Sunday. She handled the ground well and she's a nice filly," said O'Brien.
"We ran three in the Debutante Stakes all with the view to coming back here for the Moyglare Stud Stakes. Ryan thought Happily would quicken better on better ground and Seamus (Heffernan) felt the same for September, but it was her first run back since Royal Ascot and she'll come on for that.
"If the ground is not too soft, they will all come back for the Moyglare with Clemmie. We've been happy with Clemmie since Newmarket."
Order Of St George won the Irish St Leger Trial for the third time and will attempt to avenge last year's reverse in the Leger itself.
"Order Of St George is in good form and he did everything right in the Irish St Leger Trial on Saturday," said O'Brien.
"He handled the ease in the ground well and stays very well. In all fairness to Order Of St George, he is a very consistent horse and the plan is for him to come back to the Curragh for the Irish St Leger.
"He had a break after Royal Ascot so it was nice to get him back going and Ryan was very happy with him."
O'Brien also dominated the Futurity Stakes on Sunday, with Rostropovich beating Coat Of Arms.
"We were delighted with both Rostropovich and Coat Of Arms in the Futurity Stakes at the Curragh," said O'Brien.
"Rostropovich probably wasn't mad about the ground, but he stayed going well. Looking at him in his races, I'd think he will stay further than seven furlongs but on nicer ground, a race like the National Stakes would be possible.
"On better ground he might travel better, so it is possible he will be in our thoughts for the National Stakes."
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Timeform Global Rankings European Division Ballydoyle Spotlight & News update 22/08/17 19 Ballydoyle residents in rankings
Leading Sires Tables Updated
A.P.O'Brien Year by Year Stats Updated
A.P.O'Brien Season Earnings Updated
A.P.O'Brien Career Stats Updated
A.P.O'Brien Top Earning Horses 2017 Updated
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Actress & Alluringly bid for glory at York
22.08
Aidan O'Brien will rely upon Actress as he seeks a first triumph in the Sky Bet Lowther Stakes at York on Thursday & Alluringly steps back up in class for the Group 1 Darley Yorkshire Oaks also on Thursday.
The daughter of Fastnet Rock won a Listed race at Gowran recently but finished behind Enable at Chester in May and in the Epsom Oaks.
John Gosden's brilliant filly, who also won the Irish Oaks and the King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes, is among Alluringly's five rivals on the Knavesmire.
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Ballydoyle trio in Gimcrack
21.08
Aidan O'Brien has three possibles left in contention for the Al Basti Equiworld Gimcrack Stakes at York on Saturday.
The Ballydoyle handler last won the race back in 2001 with Rock Of Gibraltar, and is responsible this time for Declarationofpeace, Seahenge and US Navy Flag.
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Churchill set for clash with Barney Roy in Juddmonte
21.08
Churchill will lock horns with Barney Roy for the third time in the Juddmonte International Stakes at York on Wednesday.
Aidan O'Brien's Churchill came out on top in the 2000 Guineas before following up in the Irish version, but Barney Roy got revenge on his Newmarket conqueror in the St James's Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot.
Churchill was only fourth that day and has to put that disappointing effort behind him. He has also yet to run beyond a mile.
O'Brien is also represented in the extended mile-and-a-quarter event by Cliffs Of Moher, who was second in the Investec Derby and did not have the best of runs when fourth in the Eclipse, in which Barney Roy was pipped by Ulysses.
The Sir Michael Stoute-trained Ulysses got the Sandown verdict by a nose and re-opposes, having finished second to Enable in the King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot subsequently.
John Gosden has rerouted Musidora scorer Shutter Speed to York after taking her out of an intended engagement at Deauville at the weekend because of soft ground.
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Ballydoyle Trio set for Voltigeur
21.08
Irish Derby winner Capri is not among the three runners set to be saddled by Aidan O'Brien in the Betway Great Voltigeur on Wednesday.
The Ballydoyle master will rely upon Douglas Macarthur, Spanish Steps and Venice Beach as he attempts to land back-to-back victories after Idaho struck 12 months ago.
Irish Derby runner-up Cracksman will take on seven rivals as he bids to return to winning ways at York. The John Gosden-trained son of Frankel, who also finished third in the Epsom Derby, will make his first start since his appearance at the Curragh in the mile-and-a-half Group Two.
Khalidi will make his first start since joining trainer Clive Cox, while Sir Michael Stoute, who has won the race a record seven times, will be represented by Mirage Dancer.
The field is completed by the Roger Charlton-trained Atty Persse and Count Octave from the yard of Andrew Balding.
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Capri a major doubt for York
20.08
Aidan said: "Capri may not go for the Voltigeur.
"He didn't have a clean scope this morning, and we'll see how he is tomorrow.
"Usually if it's not clean today it won't be tomorrow, so we'll see.
"If he doesn't make York then he'll go straight to Doncaster.
"Venice Beach, Douglas Macarthur and maybe one other could go for the Voltigeur."
O'Brien could also be represented in the Group Two at York by Exemplar, Finn McCool, Spanish Steps and Taj Mahal."
Betway were as short as 4-1 about Capri for the Great Voltigeur on Sunday morning but following the news Paddy Power are now as big as 10-1. Cracksman is the 6-4 favourite.
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Magical stuns Debutante heavyweights
Aidan O'Brien's apparent third string Magical upstaged her two stable companions to take the Group Two Breast Cancer Research Debutante Stakes at the Curragh.
Donnacha O'Brien dictated affairs on the sister of last year's winner Rhododendron and the 11-1 chance kept up the gallop throughout the seven-furlong trip.
Happily (6-4) tried to lay down a strong challenge but Magical would not be denied.
Willie McCreery's Mary Tudor was third, with the O'Brien-trained September, the 11-10 favourite, only fourth.
It was a 12th win in the race for the Ballydoyle handler.
On upcoming plans the Ballydoyle maestro commented: "Cliffs Of Moher and Churchill are both on target for York on Wednesday, and hopefully the rain stays away.
"Capri may not go for the Voltigeur. He didn't have a clean scope this morning, and we'll see how he is tomorrow. Usually if it's not clean today it won't be tomorrow, so we'll see.
"If he doesn't make York then he'll go straight to Doncaster.
"Venice Beach, Douglas Macarthur and maybe one other could go for the Voltigeur."
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Rostropovich Leads home Ballydoyle 1 2 3 to make it 9 wins in the Futurity for Aidan O'Brien
Ryan Moore cajoled Rostropovich at the death to win the Futurity Stakes at the Curragh.
Stablemate Coat Of Arms had looked to have cut loose in the hands of Donnacha O'Brien, but Moore would not be denied.
The 11-8 favourite was not the most willing ally, but his jockey revved him up for one last push to score by a short head.
Both horses are trained by Aidan O'Brien, who was winning the seven-furlong Group Two for an 11th time.
The Ballydoyle handler said: "He stayed at it well. He wasn't mad about the ground and will get further than seven (furlongs).
"On better ground he'll travel better. He was a bit laboured and the National Stakes (Curragh, September 10) is a possible."
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The hugely promising Christopher Robin Beautifully captured by the brilliant David Betts - Poster by me
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Classy George makes it 3 in a row in Leger trial
Order Of St George won the Comer Group International Irish St Leger Trial for the third year running with an authoritative performance at the Curragh.
Returning from a break since being touched off by Big Orange in the Ascot Gold Cup, the Aidan O'Brien-trained five-year-old showed he was well on target for next month's Irish St Leger as he won with the minimum of fuss.
Twilight Payment and Renneti cut out the early pace but Ryan Moore was simply biding his time on the 1/2 favourite.
Order Of St George kicked on a furlong and a half out and went on to win by four and three-quarter lengths from Rekindling.
Moore said: "It was nice ground and the race suited him well. He's a big horse and likes that bit of an ease.
"It was a good race but he's a high-class horse and was third in the Arc."
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Ballydoyle triple handed in Futurity
19.08
Aidan O'Brien is triple-handed as he bids to extend his tremendous recent record in the Galileo Irish EBF Futurity Stakes at the Curragh on Sunday.
The Ballydoyle handler has saddled 10 previous winners of the seven-furlong Group Two, with Giant's Causeway (1999), Hawk Wing (2001), Gleneagles (2014) and this year's dual 2000 Guineas hero Churchill (2016) among those on the roll of honour.
This year's representatives all seemingly need to improve to score at Group Two level, with none of the trio having won their most recent starts.
Rostropovich opened his account on his second appearance at Gowran Park, but was a disappointing odds-on favourite at Naas last time.
Berkeley Square won nicely at Tipperary before finishing well-held in a Group Three, while Coat Of Arms has been placed in maidens the last twice.
"We run a few in the Futurity. Rostropovich was disappointing the last day but we think he might improve," said O'Brien.
Ger Lyons saddles a major contender in Camelback, who steps up in class following successive wins at Leopardstown and Naas.
Lyons said: "He'll have to behave himself. He's a nice horse, but mentally he's not there yet.
"He's short of that class, but he's there and it will be another step in his education."
The Jim Bolger-trained Theobald sets the standard after filling the runner-up spot in the Anglesey and Tyros Stakes on his last two appearances.
Joe Murphy's twice-raced maiden Swiss Cottage completes the line-up.
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3 New Coolmore Posters No Nay Never War Command Australia & Declaration of War
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A.P.O'Brien Season Earning Updated
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Declaration of War making a big impression with his first crop he's already sired his 1st group winner with G1 placed Actress
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Alluringly could be sent to York to tackle Enable agian
19.08
Alluringly could be set for another crack at Enable in Thursday's Darley Yorkshire Oaks at York.
Aidan O'Brien's filly returned to her best when getting up late to land the Hurry Harriet Stakes at Gowran Park on Wednesday and could get another chance to turn the tables on Enable who beat Alluringly at Chester and Epsom earlier in the season.
John Gosden's dual Oaks heroine stepped up to beat the boys in brilliant style in the King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot last month and will undoubtedly be a warm order to clinch her fourth Group One success of the season en-route to a potential tilt at the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.
Gosden, who has won the Yorkshire Oaks twice before with Dar Re Mi (2009) and The Fugue (2013), has also confirmed Journey and Coronet.
"Enable is happy and well. This was part of the original plan and hopefully we'll be there," said Gosden.
Sir Michael Stoute has saddled a joint-record nine previous winners of the prestigious York contest and could call upon Abingdon and Queen's Trust.
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Aidan set to unleash the big guns at York
18.08
Aidan O'Brien is ready to let Cliffs Of Moher line up alongside Churchill in the Juddmonte International at York on Wednesday.
The Ballydoyle handler confirmed the 10-furlong showpiece as the likely next port of call for dual 2000 Guineas hero Churchill after he was withdrawn from the Sussex Stakes at Goodwood less than hour before the race on account of the testing conditions.
Cliffs Of Moher, who was runner-up in the Epsom Derby before finishing a luckless fourth in the Coral-Eclipse, is set to join his stablemate on the Knavesmire.
"We're thinking of running Cliffs Of Moher with him (Churchill) and we might run another," said O'Brien.
"Donnacha (O'Brien) is very happy with Churchill at home and Seamus (Heffernan) is very happy with Cliffs Of Moher, so we're thinking of running both at the moment."
O'Brien also confirmed Irish Derby hero Capri on course to return to action in the Betway Great Voltigeur Stakes on the same afternoon but he is unlikely to be his only representative in the race.
He said: "We're thinking of running Capri, Venice Beach, Taj Mahal and Spanish Steps.
"We could run two or three in it."
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September bypasses French Feature for Curragh Spin
18.08
Aidan O'Brien is leaning towards running September in Sunday's Breast Cancer Research Debutante Stakes at the Curragh rather than tackling the Prix Morny in France on the same day.
The Chesham Stakes winner is engaged in both the Deauville Group One and the Irish Group Two event, but O'Brien is currently favouring staying closer to home.
O'Brien also has Actress entered in the Deauville race, but the Ballydoyle handler admits he may not have a runner in the French feature if September does not run.
He said: "We're a bit caught with France, what we are doing there in the morning. We have the two fillies in and if September went, obviously she wouldn't go to the Curragh.
"We're thinking of going to the Curragh with her and it's possible then we might not have anything in France."
Both Actress & September were removed from the Prix Morny this morning leaving ballydoyle no runner in the race.
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Nelson off the mark at Leopardstown
“We could look at the Beresford or something like that with him. He gets a mile well and stays well. He was galloping out well to the line.
“You'd be delighted with the runner-up as well. He ran a lovely race and he's a lovely horse.
“He was just ready to come and you'd be delighted with the way he kept coming.
“They went an even pace and it was a very good run out of him because it wasn't a dawdle. It was a good run for a first timer.”
©Healy Racing Photos
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Churchill one of 15 left in Juddmonte
17.08
Barney Roy, Churchill and Ulysses are the headline names among 15 confirmations for Wednesday's Juddmonte International Stakes at York.
The Sir Michael Stoute-trained Ulysses prevailed by just a nose from Richard Hannon's Barney Roy in the Eclipse, and has since finished second behind Enable in the King George at Ascot.
Aidan O'Brien's 2000 Guineas hero Churchill will be having his first run over 10 furlongs as he bids to bounce back from a lacklustre fourth behind Barney Roy in the St James's Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot.
O'Brien also has Derby runner-up Cliffs Of Moher, Deauville, Lancaster Bomber and Taj Mahal in contention.
There are a handful of other Group One winners also in the mix with Decorated Knight, Nezwaah and My Dream Boat all previous scorers at the highest level.
Success Days, winner of the York Stakes last time out, Moonlight Magic, Desert Encounter, So Mi Dar and Shutter Speed all remain engaged at this stage.
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Capri on course for the Great Voltigeur
17.08
Irish Derby one-two Capri and Cracksman could renew rivalries in the Betway Great Voltigeur Stakes at York on Wednesday.
Both colts are among 17 remaining possibles for the traditional St Leger trial. However, while Capri heads the ante-post market for the season's final Classic at Doncaster next month, Cracksman is not even entered, with John Gosden already having one eye on next year.
Capri is one of seven left in by Aidan O'Brien, with Spanish Steps and Venice Beach also among the potential Ballydoyle representatives.
Roger Charlton's Royal Ascot winner Atty Persse, Andrew Balding's Count Octave and Brian Meehan's Raheen House are still in the mix.
Sir Michael Stoute's Mirage Dancer, the Joseph O'Brien-trained Rekindling and Godolphin runner Best Of Days are others who could take their chance along with Khalidi, who has left Gosden to join Clive Cox.
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Alluringly takes Gowran feature
©Healy Racing Photos
Aidan O’Brien’s English Oaks third Alluringly gained a second win at Gowran today, landing the featured Listed Irish Stallion Farms EBF Hurry Harriet Stakes under jockey Seamus Heffernan.
The daughter of Fastnet Rock had chased home top racemare Enable in two of her last three starts, including when third the Epsom Oaks in June and sixth in the Irish Oaks in July, with both races sandwiching another respectable sixth placing in the Ribblesdale Stakes at Royal Ascot.
Today dropping back in trip to 1m1f, Alluringly, drawn wide in 12, was produced from off the pace and in the end her proven stamina helped her peg back leader Making Light in the closing stages, for a neck win.
Winning trainer Aidan O'Brien wasn't present but Heffernan later said “she was the classiest filly in the race but her last two runs have been a little disappointing. I always felt I was going to get there and pick Pat (Smullen, on Making Light) up.
“I was happy enough to come on the wide outside and get a clear run. It was a help today.
“We haven’t seen the best of her. She ran well in Chester (second to Enable), and it looks like she’s back to what we think she is - she’s a bit more than we’ve seen.”
Paddy Power later introduced Alluringly at 25/1 for the Matron Stakes on Champions Weekend at Leopardstown.
Quotes from Alan Magee
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George bids for Leger Trial hat-trick
16.08
Order Of St George could bid to win the Comer Group Irish St Leger Trial for the third year running at the Curragh on Saturday.
Aidan O'Brien's star stayer has won the mile-and-three-quarter Group Three for the last two seasons and bids for the hat-trick after going down by just a short head to Big Orange in his defence of his Gold Cup crown at Royal Ascot.
"The Irish St Leger Trial on Saturday is the race we are looking at for Order Of St George at the moment," said O'Brien.
"He's back after a break and he wouldn't mind it too much if the ground even got a bit on on the slow side."
O'Brien also has Air Supremacy, Finn McCool, Galilean, The Anvil and Key To My Heart in a 22-strong entry.
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September set for Debutante
15.08
September remains on course to put her unbeaten record and huge reputation on the line in the National Breast Cancer Research Debutante Stakes at the Curragh on Sunday.
After making a big impression on her racecourse debut at Leopardstown in June, the daughter of Deep Impact lined up in the Chesham Stakes at Royal Ascot and ran out an authoritative winner over subsequent Group Three scorer Nyaleti.
September is a best priced 11-2 favourite for next year's 1000 Guineas and looks set to step up to Group Two level this weekend.
Trainer Aidan O'Brien is responsible for six of the 11 entries, and said: "It is a big weekend at the Curragh and we are looking forward to it.
"There's nothing written in stone just yet and we'll have a look at things like the ground and how the horses work later in the week, but September and Happily would definitely be possible runners in the Debutante Stakes."
Alongside September and Happily, the Ballydoyle handler has left in Actress, Ballet Shoes, Clemmie and Magical.
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Fleet Review looks the leading player in Futurity Stakes
15.08
Aidan O'Brien is responsible for eight of the 13 horses to stand their ground at the confirmation stage for Sunday's Galileo Irish EBF Futurity Stakes at the Curragh.
The Ballydoyle handler has saddled 10 previous winners of the seven-furlong Group Two, with Giant's Causeway (1999), Hawk Wing (2001), Gleneagles (2014) and this year's dual 2000 Guineas hero Churchill (2016) among those on the roll of honour.
This year's squad includes dual course winner Fleet Review and Mendelssohn, who impressed on his second start at the track just a week ago.
O'Brien said: " All the horses we left in the Futurity Stakes are possibles at this stage and we'll have a look at it later in the week."
The O'Brien octet is completed by Berkeley Square, Bond Street, Coat Of Arms, Nelson, Rostropovich and Seahenge.
Camelback has won two of his three starts for Ger Lyons, while the Michael O'Callaghan-trained I Am Power could renew rivalries with Fleet Review, having finished just a length behind him here a fortnight ago.
Ken Condon's Romanised, who was a little disappointing in last week's Phoenix Stakes, dual Group Three runner-up Theobald, trained by Jim Bolger, and Swiss Cottage from Joe Murphy's yard are the other contenders.
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O'Brien considers drop in trip for Deauville
15.08
Deauville is likely to be dropped in trip following his narrow defeat in the Arlington Million on Saturday night.
Aidan O'Brien's four-year-old hit the front in the latter stages of the Grade One contest in Chicago, but was caught late on by eventual winner Beach Patrol and runner-up Fanciful Angel.
Deauville was beaten less than a length into third place and O'Brien believes he could be more effective back at a mile.
He said: "It looks like he's just not getting a mile and a quarter. Obviously his best run was in the Queen Anne at Ascot over a mile, so he's probably going to have to come back.
"In the Meld Stakes at Leopardstown it was the same thing, at the line Jim Bolger's horse (Moonlight Magic) collared him. As he's getting older, he's getting quicker rather than having more stamina.
"He's a horse that we'll travel loads with. All those big races around the world from a mile and a quarter back he could go for."
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Leading Sires Tables Updated
A.P.O'Brien Year By Year Stats Updated
A.P.O'Brien Career Stats Updated
A.P.O'Brien Top Earning Horses in Training 2017
A.P.O'Brien Complete Group Race Win History Honours Board Updated> http://www.aidanobrienfansite.com/aidan-obrien-honours-boar…
A.P.O'Brien G1 wins by nations update
A P O'Brien Bobby Frankel world record bid update this time last year Aidan was on 12 G1s ended with 22 has 14 in 2017 on course for 24
Ballydoyle York Plans
14.08
Aidan O'Brien feels Churchill is "the main one" after revealing his running plans for next week's Welcome to Yorkshire Ebor Festival.
The brilliant dual Guineas winner is 7/2 second-favourite behind 3/1 shot Barney Roy for the Juddmonte International, a race O'Brien has won five times in the past.
The trainer is looking forward to sending a typically strong team for the big meeting on the Knavesmire and feels Churchill - a disappointing fourth to Barney Roy in the St James's Palace when last seen - is his "main" chance.
"The next three or four days will probably decide how they all are," he said.
"It's obviously an important meeting and Churchill looks like he's going to go there and we're looking forward to it.
"We're happy with him and if he's going to go there (a mile and a quarter) then we'd thought we'd better try that now and we've always thought it would be well within his compass."
O'Brien has another International string to his bow with Investec Derby runner-up Cliffs Of Moher (16/1) also engaged for the 10-furlong Group One.
O'Brien said: "Churchill will be the main one but Cliffs Of Moher might also go, Washington DC might go to the Nunthorpe - that's very much where he could end up next - a fast pace and following the other horses will suit him. That's very possible.
"And I suppose we might run a filly in the fillies' race (Yorkshire Oaks). That might be the size of it but we also have some in the Ebor, though it's a little bit difficult for the three-year-olds there."
The Ballydoyle handler is also hoping to strengthen his William Hill St Leger hand during the Ebor Festival, with the Classic's 7/2 joint-favourite Capri entered for the Great Voltigeur Stakes a week on Wednesday.
He said of his St Leger candidates: "Capri is in the Great Voltigeur, Venice Beach is in it (Leger) too - that type of horse, they are all there. The horse that won at Leopardstown the other night (Spanish Steps) is in it, so we'd have three or for possibles for that."
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DC leads home Ballydoyle 1 2 in Phoenix Sprint Stakes G3
Aidan O'Brien and Ryan Moore completed a treble on today's card when Washington DC led home a one-two for Ballydoyle in the Group 3 Phoenix Sprint Stakes at the Curragh.
Moore held the 11/4 favourite up in the six-furlong contest before coming with a storming run inside the final furlong.
The Zoffany colt got on top in the closing stages to post a half length success over stable-mate Cougar Mountain.
Veteran Gordon Lord Byron ran with plenty of credit again to finish another half length back in third.
“He has a load of ability. He has loads of speed for five but it's just a little bit had to produce him over five,” said O'Brien.
“Over six he has a little bit more time to produce him and wangle him through. He just doesn't want to be in front very long.
“He's the type of horse we'll have to turn up (everywhere) as he can be unlucky in a race. He loves coming through horse. I wouldn't be ruling York out or Haydock after that.”
On the runner-up he added:- “Donnacha said to go back to six with the horse as you're stretching him out too much.
“He had some very good runs over six and was only beaten two-and-a-half lengths in the July Cup on only his second run.
“He has plenty of speed and is another horse that things just have to fall for him. If we could go back to that it would be a lot easier for him.”
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Sioux Nation wins a 16th Phoenix Stakes at the Curragh for Aidan O'Brien
Royal Ascot winner Sioux Nation was cut from 20/1 to 8/1 with Sky Bet to follow in the hoofprints of Caravaggio and win the Commonwealth Cup after he got the better of Beckford in a cracking renewal of the Keeneland Phoenix Stakes at the Curragh.
Aidan O'Brien fielded four in his challenge against the previously unbeaten Beckford, trained by Gordon Elliott, as he bid to win the race for an incredible 16th time.
Sioux Nation had won the Norfolk Stakes over five furlongs last time out and was the pick of the O'Brien team by Ryan Moore.
Beckford was sent off the 15-8 favourite but with a furlong to run Sioux Nation's superior mid-race speed enabled him to go a length clear.
To his credit Beckford was reeling him in all the way to the line under Declan McDonogh, but the post came too soon for him, with Sioux Nation (2-1) holding on by half a length to give O'Brien an incredible 16th win in the Group One contest.
O'Brien said: "I think his turn of foot won it, he travels very well and quickens very well - even though he's a big horse, he's got a lot of speed.
"Every run this year he has got better and has been coming forward.
"We were delighted with him at Ascot and we'd been delighted with him since.
"We wouldn't want to run him on soft ground because he has a lot of pace.
"He's by Scat Daddy, like Caravaggio. I don't know if we'll stretch him to seven this year, if we did we could come here for the National Stakes and if we didn't he could go for the Middle Park (Newmarket).
"He's a horse to look forward to."
When asked if he could be a Breeders' Cup contender, O'Brien said: "He'd have no bother, I'd say. He's big, powerful, rangy and loves fast ground. I'd say he'll progress as he's progressed with every run this year."
Stablemate Actress was third, and O'Brien went on: "She's progressing all the time and could come back for the Moyglare.
"Every run this year she has got better and better."
Mendelssohn opened his account at the second time of asking in the Anglesey Lodge Equine Hospital Irish EBF Maiden at the Curragh.
Aidan O'Brien's Scat Daddy youngster finished down the field behind stablemate The Pentagon on his debut, but was sent off 5-4 favourite to step up markedly on that.
Ryan Moore, fresh from riding in America on Saturday night, attempted to keep it simple and bounced into an early lead.
Everything was going straightforward until the last 100 yards when Mendelssohn, a half-brother to top-class US performer Beholder, drifted markedly to his left, but he still won comfortably from Andesh by a length.
"He was very green, he was green the first day and he's still very green again," said O'Brien.
"He'll probably take another run or two before he clicks into gear mentally.
"Ryan was very happy but he said he was very green, he notices everything. Coming up in front will hopefully have done him the world of good.
"In an ideal world we'd prefer not to go in stakes company if we could and stay a level lower for the minute while he is that green.
"He's a lovely big colt with everything in front of him, but he's just a bit babyish."
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$3,000,000 Purchase Mendelssohn sheds maiden tag at Curragh
"He'll take another run or two before he starts to click into gear mentally. He is a horse that notices everything." Aidan O'Brien, Mendelssohn
Ballydoyle’s $3,000,000 purchase Mendelssohn got off the mark at the Curragh today, winning the Anglesey Lodge Equine Hospital EBF Maiden on his second start, for trainer Aidan O’Brien and jockey Ryan Moore.
Moore’s mount (well backed from 7/4 to 5/4f) made all but was obviously green in-running and in the end drifted across the track before scoring a length win over Andesh.
American bred Mendelssohn, purchased from Clarkland Farm at Keeneland Sales last September, is a half-brother to American Champion racemare Beholder, who holds the record along with legendary John Henry for winning a Grade 1 race five years in a row.
Following Mendelssohn’s win, Aidan O’Brien stated “he came forward lovely from his first run but he's still very babyish.
“Obviously he will learn as he goes along. He (Moore) said he was very green in front and he was extremely green the first day when Wayne (Lordan) rode him.
“Hopefully he'll grow out of that - sometimes it takes them two or three runs, but he's a lovely colt.
“You'd like to go for a winners race with him rather than stepping him up because he's extra green. You wouldn't like to go into a group race with him yet like that, you'd like him to be a little bit more professional.
“He's a lovely colt and a very well-bred horse; we might go gently I think.
Quotes from Gary Carson
©Healy Racing Photos
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Deauville places in Million again
13 August
Aidan O'Brien's Deauville finished third for the second consecutive year in the Arlington Million in Chicago last night.
Ryan Moore got a dream run down the inner on the four-year-old and the pair struck the front early in the home straight as the leader edged off the rail. Deauville still held the lead with under 100 yards to go but was collared in the closing stages.
The race was won by Beach Patrol trained by Chad Brown. This was a second win at the top level for Beach Patrol which won last year's Secretariat Stakes.
Irish Oaks runner-up Rain Goddess beat just two horses home in the other big race on the night at Arlington Park, The Beverly D Stakes.
Aidan O'Brien's filly was bang in contention for a long way, but she was trapped for room when push came to shove as Dacita powered to victory, a big double on the night for trainer Chad Brown and jockey Irad Ortiz jnr.
Dona Bruja finished second in the hands of Declan Cannon, with Grand Jete third.
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Breeders' Cup target for Alice
13 August
Aidan O'Brien would like to get a run into multiple Group One winner Alice Springs before the Breeders' Cup at Del Mar in the autumn.
Victories in the Falmouth, Matron and Sun Chariot Stakes saw her head to the big meeting in America last November as a leading player for the Breeders' Cup Mile, but she could only finish 10th.
Alice Springs has been sidelined with an injury since she was beaten on her comeback at Naas in April, but O'Brien is looking at taking her Stateside once more.
"Alice Springs is on the way back," said the Ballydoyle handler.
"I would like to get her ready for the Breeders' Cup, and get a run in beforehand."
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Taj Mahal 2nd Rain Goddess unplaced Deauville 3rd Full Replays Below
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Ballet Shoes shines at Tip
©Healy Racing Photos
Ballet Shoes (11/4) confirmed herself to be a filly to watch with a smooth display in the Listed Coolmore Ivawood Stakes at Tipperary.
This was a step up in class for Aidan O'Brien's filly from her maiden victory at the Curragh last month but she took it in her stride.
She raced just off Strike For Freedom before easing to the front, under Donnacha O'Brien, on the home bend.
She came down the stands' side rail and drew clear in the final half a furlong to readily win by three and a quarter lengths.
Punters really came for the unbeaten Lethal Steps and forced his price down to 6/4 favourite.
He was outgunned byBallet Shoes though, and came in second without troubling her.
Mattymolls Gaga at 14/1 completed the placings.
Donnacha O'Brien said: "I liked her the first day I rode her and she stepped up to win her maiden the last day.
"Today was a stepping stone for her - it wasn't a case of just getting black-type as I think she's a very smart filly.
"She'll get further than that and will stay a 1m2f at least but she has shown enough pace today to be effective over a mile."
Regarding his battle to make 8st 12lbs (put up 2lbs overweight) for the ride, he added: "It's always tough but there's people that are finding it tough to ride the bad horses in handicaps so when you're doing it on a filly like that it's not bad."
Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes
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Moore expecting Big run in million from Deauville
11.08
Deauville continues his globetrotting odyssey when tackling the Arlington Million at the Chicago venue on Saturday.
Third in the Arlington race last year, Aidan O'Brien's four-year-old was third in the Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot, in a season that has already seen him take in race in Dubai, the UK and in Ireland.
Jockey Ryan Moore will be aboard and he told his Betfair column: "We know this horse takes his travelling well - he also won the Belmont Derby last summer - and he is uncomplicated, and a trier.
"I'm expecting another big run from him."
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Abyssinian breaks maiden tag at Leopardstown
After winning the feature with Spanish Steps, Aidan O'Brien doubled-up with Abyssinian in the concluding Leopardstown Members Club Maiden.
Well-beaten on his debut over the course last October, he put in a much improved performance to finish second when stepped up in trip to a mile and six at Killarney last month.
Sent off the 4/5 favourite this evening and fitted with blinkers for the first time, he was soon in front under Donnacha O'Brien.
The son of Galileo was ridden a furlong and a half from home, keeping on well inside the final furlong to score by three and a quarter lengths.
World War finished second at 2/1 under Colin Keane for Ger Lyons, while Yug (16/1) was four and three parts of a length back in third for Declan McDonogh and John Oxx.
Aidan O'Brien said afterwards: "He'd a good run in Killarney and did it well today. He's uncomplicated and wears the blinkers as he's a bit lazy. That's just his third run and you would have to be delighted with that."
©Healy Racing Photos.
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Spanish Steps stuns Vermeer in Ballyroan
10.08 ©Healy Racing Photos
Spanish Steps led home a 1, 2 for Aidan O'Brien in the feature at Leopardstown this evening, the Group 3 GRENKE Finance Ballyroan Stakes.
Having won his maiden on his fourth start at Gowran in June, the son of Galileo since finished last of nine in the Group 1 Grand Prix de Paris at Saint-Cloud.
Available at 14/1 in a place this morning, the Seamie Heffernan ridden colt opened on-course at 8s before going off a 6/1 chance.
Soon in front, he went a few lengths clear on the entrance to the straight, and kept on well under pressure from over a furlong out, going on to score by half a length.
Johannes Vermeer, who was sent off the 4/5 favourite, attempted to reel-in his stable mate inside the final furlong, but ultimately had to settle for second under Ryan Moore.
The front two went two and a half lengths clear of Stellar Mass who was third.
O'Brien said afterwards: "We always liked him and felt he would be comfortable at a mile and a half. We always thought he would be comfortable on nice ground. We were going to go to Goodwood and then the ground changed.
"He's a bit green and babyish but is a good colt. Seamie was happy to go along, and we would see if Johannes Vermeer was able to pick him up. He was getting a lot of weight.
"Seamie gave him a very good ride. He was left alone in front and was gone turning in.
"He could go for the Voltigeur next at York.
"Johannes Vermeer could go down to Australia for a race there."
Additional reporting by Alan Magee
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Rain Goddess at Arlington Park
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Ryan Moore says the 2 Year Olds that have impressed him most so far are The Pentagon & Happily
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Australian Officials Keen for Reeler v Winx match up
10.08
Officials in Australia are keen for Highland Reel to travel Down Under and challenge Winx in the Cox Plate.
Leigh Jordon, who acts as Racing Victoria's recruitment officer for international contenders, believes Aidan O'Brien's globetrotter could be just the right horse to serve it up to the superstar.
"Highland Reel was here two years ago competing against Winx as a three-year-old and he ran third and Aidan won the race the year before that with Adelaide so I'm sure the race is on his radar," Jordon told www.racing.com.
"I'd love to see Highland Reel come back and run those tearaway sectionals and make a real race of it.
"Last year he went on the route to the Arc (Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe) - he ran second - then he went on to the Breeders' Cup, which he won, running those sectionals.
"Personally, I'd love to see him come here and throw it up to Winx."
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Moore over to partner Vermeer in Ballyroan victory bid
10.08
Ryan Moore travels to this side of the Irish Sea to take the ride aboard Johannes Vermeer in the GRENKE Finance Ballyroan Stakes at Leopardstown on Thursday evening.
The son of Galileo had his limitations exposed when competing at the highest level in both the Tattersalls Gold Cup at the Curragh and the Prince of Wales's Stales at Royal Ascot earlier this season, but made the most of having his sights lowered when landing last month's Group Three International Stakes.
The form of that success was boosted by the subsequent York victory of the runner-up, Success Days, and although Johannes Vermeer must concede weight all round, he is sure to be popular with punters.
Aidan O'Brien also saddles Spanish Steps, while the Charles O'Brien-trained Santa Monica is a third Coolmore representative.
The winner of this race gets an entry in the Caufield Cup in Australia & with a share in Johannes Vermeer recently purchased by legendary Australian owner Lloyd Williams it could be more than possible that the son of Galileo will travel to Australia before the season is out.
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Rain Goddess at Arlington Park
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Cartier Awards update
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It's The keeneland Phoenix Stakes at The curragh this weekend and Aidan is looking for his 16th winner of the race
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Timeform Global Rankings European Division Ballydoyle Spotlight & News update 08/082017
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Yucatan back in full training but no firm plans in place
09.08
Yucatan will have his progress monitored closely before a decision is made as to whether he is seen out again this season.
Although the three-year-old still holds an entry in next month's William Hill St Leger at Doncaster, connections have warned that he is far from certain to run in the final British Classic of the year.
The Aidan O'Brien-trained colt has not run since finishing second behind stablemate Douglas Macarthur in a Group Three at Leopardstown in May after sustaining a setback in the build-up to the Epsom Derby.
Alan Cooper, racing manager to owner the Niarchos Family, said: "Yucatan had a bit of a setback just before the Derby.
"He is back in full training, but Aidan O'Brien will feel his way with him and see if he is ready for another run this year or if he is better waiting until next year.
"Hopefully he should be a good older horse as he has missed a lot of this year so he should be a fresh horse for next year."
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Sir John back to winning ways at Cork
Sir John Lavery gave Aidan O'Brien a double in Cork this evening when powering home in the Listed Platinum Stakes over a mile.
Since winning his maiden at Gowran last October, the son of Galileo had finished sixth in a Listed Derby Trial at Lingfield and ninth in a Group Two at Royal Ascot - both over a mile and a half.
His stablemate Whitecliffsofdover weakened out of the lead with less that two furlongs to go. At this stageSir John Lavery was getting into top gear on the outer and he charged to the front a furlong and a half out for Seamie Heffernan.
He had Rose De Pierre on his inside for company but asserted in the final half furlong to score by three lengths. He was a well supported 5/2 favourite.
Rose De Pierre, who won this race last year, finished second at 5/1.
Aidan O'Brien said: "We thought he was a very smart horse but he disappointed in his two runs and obviously we were stretching him to far.
"He is from Hawk Wing's family and you'd be delighted with him today and Seamus was very happy with him.
"I'd say the ground wouldn't bother him but what he loves is the high tempo; going 1m4f they were going a bit steady for him.
"It's the trainer's fault he has entries over further but we'll obviously come back and stay at a mile. Wayne (Lordan) was riding him work and he thought it could be that he was quick and that's what John (Magnier) thought himself.
"We'll stick to that trip and he'll go back to Group level now; you'd also love to have him in training as a four-year-old as he's a fine, big, powerful horse."
Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes
©Healy Racing Photos
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Magical breaks maiden tag in Cork opener
Those who took the very short odds on Magical in the opening fillies' maiden at Cork would have been more than a little alarmed before she prevailed by a head.
The 2/5 favourite came here on the back of a very promising runner-up finish at the Curragh last month.
The Aidan O'Brien-trained filly didn't have it all her own way here as Willie McCreery's newcomer Mary Tudor really served it up to her in the final furlong.
The pair fought out the spoils all the way to the line with Magical edging ahead in the closing stages under Donnacha O'Brien.
Runner-up Mary Tudor (25/1) went into plenty of notebooks after this performance. The pair pulled five lengths clear of Active Approach (5/1).
Aidan O'Brien said: "Donnacha was happy with her. They didn't go too fast early and quickened well down the straight.
"She was to go to Goodwood during the week (for a maiden on August 3) but it got very bad there (ground-wise). She is babyish and green still and won't mind anything from seven to a mile. That would have done her good today and she is a grand big mare."
The going at Cork changed to soft after this race.
Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes
©Healy Racing Photos
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Shoe issues hinder Caravaggio & Churchill set York Target
08.08
Caravaggio is "very sore" after his disappointing run in France on Sunday.
Aidan O'Brien is, however, convinced there was an issue with the Scat Daddy colt's footwear when he laboured into sixth place after a slow start in the Prix Maurice de Gheest at Deauville.
He said: "Caravaggio was shod before the July Cup and the day before he was just a little bit footy.
"We changed the style of the shoe that he was wearing to one with a bit of rubber between the foot and the shoe itself. He was 100 per cent when we put them on.
"He just didn't travel the way he can travel, and he ran again in those shoes on Sunday.
"Ryan (Moore) came back in and said he's just not getting any traction.
"The rearing up in the stalls is something we can sort but when he came out Ryan said he's changing and not feeling comfortable.
"He pulled out very sore, so there is obviously an issue with the shoes that he is wearing.
"It's a bit like a fella running in a sprint with spikes on him and the fella alongside running with slippers on. He's just not getting the traction.
"He is a front-wheel-drive horse - he works from the front. We think there is an issue there and especially when he was so sore."
O'Brien accepts Caravaggio could now be a doubt for the inaugural running of The Everest - the richest turf race in the world - at Randwick in October.
He added: "Obviously it's very hard to say he could go to Australia after his last two runs.
"We will see how he is in a week to 10 days, and if we can get him back to the way we know he can move he could come back here (at the Curragh) over five furlongs (Flying Five Stakes) on Irish Champions Weekend.
"Then he could go on to Ascot."
Churchill is likely to swerve the Prix Jacques le Marois at at Deauville on Sunday in preference for a trip to York later in the month.
The dual Guineas winner was a late withdrawal from the Sussex Stakes at Goodwood last Wednesday due to the testing conditions, but he had been in the frame to head to France this weekend.
But trainer Aidan O'Brien is now favouring an assault on the Juddmonte International at York on August 23.
He said: "We are looking at York with Churchill.
"It is not written in stone, but we are looking at going up to a mile and a quarter with him.
"The plan was to go to Goodwood and then go up to a mile and a quarter after that.
"If we were to go to France this week then we might not get a chance to go up to a mile and a quarter.
"If York went well then he may go on to Leopardstown (Irish Champion Stakes)."
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Athena half sis to Bracelet & Wading and Hence full sis to Alice Springs both debut tomorrow at Cork Hence cost 2.2 million GNS - Magical a Full Sister to Rhododendron makes her 2nd start in the same race she was 2nd on debut last time out
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Fleet Review takes Curragh feature & News on some of the Ballydoyle Big Guns
Fleet Review followed up a maiden win over course and distance just nine days ago when taking the Eleanor Comer Memorial Race for the father and son team of Aidan and Donnacha O’Brien at the Curragh.
O’Brien junior made virtually all on the War Front colt last time, and he adopted similar tactics again here although well-backed 11/8 favourite I Am Power threw down a strong challenge inside the final furlong.
However the 5/2 winner stayed on best of the pair in the closing stages to prevail by a length, with Boragh Steps a further two and a quarter lengths away in third.
Aidan O’Brien said, “He’s progressing nicely and I think he can improve again. He’s a big scopey horse.
“He might get seven furlongs but I’m not sure if he’ll get much further than that. He can run over five, six or seven.”
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British Trainers Championship Updated
Leading Sires Tables Updated
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Arlington next weekend - Deauville in Arlington Million - Rain Goddess in Beverly D - Taj Mahal in Secretariat Stakes
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2 New Coolmore posters - Adelaide & The best possible start
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Arlington next weekend - Deauville in Arlington Million - Rain Goddess in Beverly D - Taj Mahal in Secretariat Stakes
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Caravaggio & Intelligence Cross unplaced at Deauville Caravaggio (Pictured Below) missed the break again and never really got into it
Aidan on Caravaggio: "I don’t know really what happened. Maybe I ran him back a bit quick after Newmarket."
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Sharp Amedeo looks a prospect
The Aidan O'Brien trained Amedeo Modigliani got off the mark on his second start, as he ran out an easy winner of the Galway Shopping Centre Irish EBF Maiden under Seamie Heffernan..
O'Brien and Heffernan struck with subsequent Irish Derby hero Capri in this race twelve months ago, and they followed up on that success with this 2/9 chance.
A good third on debut to stable mate Gustav Klimt, the son of Galileo was settled in third by Heffernan.
He came with his challenge in the straight and hit the front from the furlong pole, staying on strongly to score by five and a half lengths.
The front-running Crecerelle finished second under Pat Smullen for Dermot Weld at 6/1.
Heffernan said afterwards: "He is a decent horse. We really fancied him and it would have been disappointing to get beaten. He done well.
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Former Ballydoyle resident Galileo gelding Aloft impressively wins the The Nursery Handicap at Flemington Australia placed in G2 company the time before he looks like he is going places. Bondi Beach was 9th in the same race looks a shadow of his former self unfortunately.
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Your 4 Time Group One Winner Winter
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Bobby Frankel World Record Bid Update 13 G1s 12 from equalling the record this time last year APOB was on 11
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Winter becomes the 26th Member of Galileo's Millionaire Club
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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
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3 Ballydoyle Juveniles among the best in Europe - Gustav & Expert Eye on Dewhurst Collision course mouthwatering
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Caravaggio to bounce back in Prix Maurice de Gheest.
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04.08
Caravaggio is reported to be in good order ahead of his attempt to bounce back to winning ways in the Prix Maurice de Gheest at Deauville on Sunday.
After winning at Royal Ascot for the second year in succession with victory in the Commonwealth Cup, the Aidan O'Brien-trained speed machine suffered the first defeat of his career when finishing fourth in the July Cup at Newmarket.
Despite the son of Scat Daddy, who is one of two runners for the Ballydoyle handler in the six-and-a-half-furlong Group One alongside Intelligence Cross, having his colours lowered last time out, connections are looking forward to seeing him back in action.
"Caravaggio is in very good form and has been since his run last time at Newmarket. We are looking forward to running him and Intelligence Cross at Deauville on Sunday," said Kevin Buckley, Coolmore's UK representative.
Although Bound For Nowhere proved to be no match for Caravaggio at Royal Ascot when finishing back in fourth, his trainer Wesley Ward is confident of a big run.
Ward said: "Bound For Nowhere has been doing great. I was really happy with his run at Ascot as he had a little trouble in the race. He would not have been placed but he would have finished a little closer.
"That was only his third start and first on a straight course. He is a big colt and not like the little rockets that I usually bring over.
"I own him so that's why he has been able to have the time. He had a beautiful workout last week. He worked in company with Undrafted (Diamond Jubilee winner of 2015). I didn't want to ship him to France just hoping to run a good race, I wanted him ready to run the race of his life.
"When they turned for home the boy on him tapped him on the shoulder and he opened up by six lengths. His form had to be that good to put him on the plane.
"I saw that explosion in him like when he won that race at Keeneland
"He had a nice breeze on Wednesday, I think that his last race has brought him forward and I think he will run a big race.
"It's always tough when you are running against a horse like Caravaggio but my horse is ready to run the race of his life. Hopefully that is good enough to beat Caravaggio but, if not, I will take my hat off to him as he is a champion."
While multiple Group-race winner Magical Memory is yet to triumph at the highest level, connections of the Charlie Hills-trained five-year-old, who has won his previous two starts, are hoping he can address that fact over a new trip which is expected to suit.
Sam Hoskins, racing manager to owners Kennet Valley Thoroughbreds, said: "He has been really well at home and Charlie has been keen to run him in this race once the dust settled after Newbury.
"Although he hasn't won a Group One yet, he was unlucky in the Diamond Jubilee last year and in the Sprint Cup the year before.
"He is worthy of a place in the line-up and Charlie feels that the marginal step up in trip will suit him. He always travels well in his races and the good to soft ground will be perfect for him."
Brando, Aclaim and Tupi also make the trip, with last year's winner Signs Of Blessing among the 13 too.
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Music Box bags her 3rd win of the season at Galway
©Healy Racing Photos
A magnificent fifteen minutes or so, which culminated with their sensational three-year-old filly Winter landing the Nassau at Goodwood, started for Ballydoyle with Corrib Fillies Stakes success at Galway through Music Box.
This Listed seven furlong event, backed by Arthur Guinness and the Irish European Breeders Fund, saw the heavily campaigned three-year-old Music Box go off a 4/1 joint favourite.
Donnacha O'Brien did the steering on the tough daughter of Invincible Spirit. She was looking good from before the straight and eventually prevailed by a length and a half from Drumfad Bay.
"I got a nice position and she stayed on nicely when I asked her," said the winning rider.
"She had some good runs and she could progress further."
Music Box reportedly lost a shoe leaving the stalls.
(TW & EM)
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Winter claimed her fourth straight Group One success with a classy display in the Nassau Stakes at Glorious Goodwood.
The grey daughter of Galileo has been a revelation since switching to the Aidan O'Brien stable this season and advertised another string to her considerable bow with a comfortable victory on her first attempt over a mile and a quarter.
She was made to battle after challenging the pace-setting Sobetsu at the furlong pole but Winter, ridden by Ryan Moore, mastered that rival with aplomb before staying on strongly to score by a length and a half from Blond Me, who picked up the pieces as Sobetsu's early efforts took their toll.
The major disappointment of the race was John Gosden's So Mi Dar, who was a little keen to post on her first run of the season and seemingly failed to handle the rain-soaked ground.
Sky Bet reacted by making Winter 5/1 from 12/1 for the Irish Champion stakes, 8/1 from 12/1 for the Juddmonte International and 5/1 from 9/1 for the Breeders Cup Filly & Mare at the Breeders' Cup.
Ryan Moore said: "You wouldn't say she was impressive by any means, but this ground is really as bad as you are going to get.
"It wasn't a smooth race at all, and it didn't go the way you'd like it to have gone for her, but she's got plenty of class and that's what came out in the end.
"With six runners there was a lack of cover, but she listens and did everything right. She's won four Group Ones on the spin and is a very professional racehorse. She knows how to race, and how to win."
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Wild Irish Rose bidding to blossom in Lillie Langtry
03.08
Wild Irish Rose will bid to complete a hat-trick of wins and break new ground for trainer Aidan O'Brien in the Markel Insurance Fillies' Stakes at Goodwood on Thursday.
The Group Three contest over a mile and three-quarters is better known as the Lillie Langtry, and is one of the few races of note the Ballydoyle trainer has yet to win.
Getting off the mark at the ninth attempt of asking in a Fairyhouse handicap, the daughter of Galileo has since followed that up with a Listed success at Leopardstown.
O'Brien said: "Wild Irish Rose won a Listed race last time and is a filly that is progressing. Obviously this is a step up in grade, but we are looking forward to seeing her run
"She won nicely the last day, even though she didn't win by very far. Ana (O'Brien) has ridden her in all her races and said to me the time before she won that she was a filly that didn't respond to the stick and that it would be better to ride her without using the stick.
"She then ran and won at Fairyhouse without using the stick, then she ran again and progressed again to win a Listed race. She tries very hard, but doesn't like getting hit with the stick. This was new territory last time, but we always thought she would stay this trip."
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Winter faces 8 rivals in Nassau
01.08
Winter will face eight rivals as she bids to win a fourth successive Group One in the Qatar Nassau Stakes at Goodwood on Thursday.
Since suffering defeat on her first run for Aidan O'Brien in the spring, the daughter of Galileo has won the English and Irish 1000 Guineas and the Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot.
She steps up to a mile and a quarter for the first time on the Sussex Downs and is joined by stablemate Hydrangea.
John Gosden fields two top-class fillies in opposition. The lightly-raced So Mi Dar, who will be making her seasonal debut after a couple of minor setbacks, is joined by stablemate Shutter Speed, who was last seen finishing fourth in the French Oaks.
Having agonised over the decision, Frankie Dettori has plumped for the year older So Mi Dar, allowing Pat Smullen to come in for the ride on Shutter Speed.
There are four other Group One winners in the field, too, in a contest which could lay claim to being one of the races of the season.
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