Aidan O'Brien

Aidan O'Brien: aims to run five in the Investec Derby on Saturday

 PICTURE: Mark Cranham (racingpost.com/photos)

O'Brien reveals jockeys for Epsom Derby quintet

AIDAN O'BRIEN has confirmed riding arrangements for the 2013 Investec Derby and has found berths for Ryan Moore and Richard Hughes but not Frankie Dettori.

O'Brien plans to have five runners in the Epsom Classic on Saturday with son, Joseph, confirmed to ride Battle Of Marengo, the Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial winner.

Magician will not be declared at Thursday morning's final stage after connections opted to aim the Irish 2,000 Guineas winner at the St James's Palace Stakes, also over a mile, at Royal Ascot next month.

Moore will be on Ruler Of The World, on whom he won the Chester Vase, with Hughes booked for Mars who finished sixth to red-hot Derby favourite Dawn Approach in the Qipco 2,000 Guineas.

Dettori will not be involved in Ballydoyle's riding arrangements for the Classic in which Seamie Heffernan will partner Festive Cheer with Colm O'Donoghue on Flying The Flag.

O'Brien said: "We discussed plans for Magician and decided to wait a bit longer before running him again. The Derby comes only a week after the Irish Guineas and while he came out of his win at the Curragh very well, it is a long season. We will train him for the St James's Palace Stakes.

"The plan is to have five runners in the Derby subject to all the horses passing their routine tests before declaration time in the morning."

Hughes is a rare accomplice for O'Brien in recent years but did ride for Ireland's champion trainer during the 2012 Breeders' Cup meeting at Santa Anita in November, partnering seventh-placed Lines Of Battle in the Juvenile Turf won by stablemate George Vancouver, who was ridden by Moore.

However, trainer and jockey have teamed up before in the Derby, in 2009, when O'Brien ran six in an attempt to topple Sea The Stars.

The bid proved unsuccessful but Hughes fared second best of the Ballydoyle sextet as Fame And Glory under Heffernan chased home the winner with Hughes next best on Masterofthehorse.



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No Magician in Epsom Derby say Coolmore

Wed 29th May 2013, 18:26

Magician is likely to miss the Epsom Derby
Magician is likely to miss the Epsom Derby
(Healy Racing Photos)
Irish 2000 Guineas winner Magician is set to sidestep Saturday's Investec Derby at Epsom, according to owners Coolmore Stud.

Trainer Aidan O'Brien raised the possibility of the Galileo colt bidding for a quickfire Classic double when leaving his Curragh hero in the Derby field at Monday's five-day stage.

However, with Coolmore having a further five runners in the mile-and-a-half contest, including long-time leading fancy Battle Of Marengo, Dee Stakes winner Magician is set to be saved for another day.

Coolmore tweeted: "At the moment Ballydoyle has 5 intended Epsom Derby runners (Battle Of Marengo, Festive Cheer, Flying The Flag, Ruler Of The World & Mars).

"It's possible this could change depending on how the horses are in the morning prior to declaration."



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O'Brien has two in Oaks

Wed 29th May 2013, 11:16

Moth represents Aidan O'Brien <br> in Friday's Oaks
Moth represents Aidan O'Brien 
in Friday's Oaks 
(Healy Racing Photos)
Aidan O'Brien saddles two runners in the Investec Oaks at Epsom on Friday, with son Joseph partnering 1000 Guineas third Moth in preference to runaway Cork maiden scorer Say (Seamie Heffernan).

O'Brien's Snow Queen was the only withdrawal from the confirmation stage. The Ballydoyle handler has saddled four previous Oaks winners, including last year's heroine Was.

Ante-post favourite Secret Gesture features among 11 fillies declared for a superb renewal of the Classic.

The daughter of Galileo shot to prominence for the mile-and-a-half feature with a devastating display in the Lingfield Oaks Trial and will bid to give trainer Ralph Beckett his second win in the race, following Look Here's triumph in five years ago.

Secret Gesture will carry the colours of Qatar Racing for the first time after Sheikh Fahad snapped up a half-share earlier this week, but Jim Crowley keeps the ride.

Beckett has an interesting second string to his bow in Pretty Polly winner Talent, the mount of Richard Hughes.

Hughie Morrison runs Cheshire Oaks winner Banoffee, supplemented at a cost of £30,000, while Sir Michael Stoute's Liber Nauticus was towards the head of the betting even before enhancing her claims with victory in the Musidora Stakes.

Michael Bell runs Madame Defarge and The Lark, with the field completed by Gertrude Versed, Roz and Miss You Too.




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TIMEFORM Global Ranking European Division Update Ballydoyle Overview (Coach House number one 2yo)  


 



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Prix du Jockey Club (Gr.1) 1m2f Sunday 

Ballydoyle have 4 left in.


Festive Cheer, Flying The Flag, Indian Chief &
 Lines Of Battle.



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Romans is King at the ninth attempt

 By Alan MageeMon 27th May 2013, 18:01

King Of The Romans strides clear for Joseph O'Brien
King Of The Romans strides clear for Joseph O'Brien
(Healy Racing Photos)
King Of the Romans is undoubtedly one of the lesser lights in Ballydoyle but, at the start of a big week for the yard, he got off the mark at the ninth time of asking at Ballinrobe in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Median Auction Maiden.

The son of Holy Roman Emperor was sent straight to the front on leaving the stalls by Joseph O’Brien in this nine-furlong event but was headed around halfway byMadam Mo.

However the champion jockey got a great run up the inner entering the short straight to take it up again, and the 100/30 chance soon settled the issue to beat the staying on newcomer Modista (16/1) by three and three quarter lengths.

The frustrating Cocktail Hour (5/2) held every chance approaching the straight but was again found wanting in third, with 9/4 favourite Madam Mo also weakening to finish fourth.

Joseph O’Brien said afterwards, “I’m happy enough with that. He’d run well before and he was probably just coming up against better horses in those auction maidens.”

Additional reporting by Donal Murphy


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Ballydoyle 6  

Magician, Mars, Battle Of Marengo, 

Ruler Of The World, Flying The Flag 

and Festive Cheer



Approach heads 15 Derby entries

Mon 27th May 2013, 13:29

Dawn Approach (Kevin Manning) winning the Qipco 2000 Guineas at Newmarket
Dawn Approach (Kevin Manning) winning the Qipco 2000 Guineas at Newmarket 
(Healy Racing Photos)
Dawn Approach will face a maximum of 14 opponents in Saturday's Investec Derby at Epsom after German raider Chopin was supplemented today.

Jim Bolger's unbeaten Qipco 2000 Guineas winner has stamina questions to answer on the Downs having never run over further than a mile, and even his effervescent trainer has admitted there is no guarantee he will stay a mile and a half.

However, he is a very short-priced favourite to add another Classic to his record.

He could at least face one surprise rival in the shape of Aidan O'Brien's Magician, an easy winner of the Irish 2,000 Guineas on Saturday, while German contender Chopin has been supplemented at a cost of £75,000 by Andreas Wohler.

O'Brien can also call on Derrinstown Trial winner Battle Of Marengo, Newmarket Guineas sixth Mars, unbeaten Chester Vase winner Ruler Of The World, Flying The Flag and Festive Cheer.

Andrew Oliver's First Cornerstone, who ran a pleasing race when fifth in the Irish Guineas on what was his seasonal reappearance, is another possible for Ireland along with David Wachman's Galileo Rock.

Andre Fabre took the spoils two years ago with Pour Moi and has followed a similar route to Epsom with Ocovango.

York's Dante Stakes is usually seen as the best trial in Britain and Elaine Burke's Libertarian won that in good style, beating Trading Leather, who has also been left in by Bolger.

James Tate's Mirsaale and the John Ryan-trained Ocean Applause complete the confirmations.




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Light continues on the up

Sun 26th May 2013, 15:20

Leading Light beats Little White Cloud at the Curragh
Leading Light beats Little White Cloud at the Curragh
(Healy Racing Photos)
The progressive Leading Light toughed it out well from the front to justify odds of 4/6 in the Group 3 Airlie Stud Gallinule Stakes under Joseph O'Brien at the Curragh.

The win, bringing up a double for Ballydoyle after Sir John Hawkins' victory in the first, looked like it mightn't be achieved for a stride or two as Little White Cloud andCount Of Limonade tried their cases from the quarter mile pole.

However, despite left off the rail inside the last, the victorious Montjeu colt was well on top at the finish, prevailing by two and a quarter lengths.

Aidan O'Brien said: "He's a lazy horse. He doesn't mind going along in front and there's always plenty there when you want it.

"He has plenty of pace and he's able to get a position. He's a very straight-forward Montjeu – he can get a position early, travel along and he can be tough at the end.

"He's lazy that's why he wears the cheek-pieces. It helps him from being too lazy early on.

"He's a possible for Ascot or the Irish Derby. He wouldn't mind ten furlongs, a mile and a half or even two miles – I don't think it matters to him." (GC & EM)


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Derby "definitely possible" for Magician

Sun 26th May 2013, 14:50

Magician
Magician
(Healy Racing Photos)
Irish 2,000 Guineas hero Magician is to be left in the Investec Derby at the confirmation stage on Monday.

Previously impressive in winning the Dee Stakes at Chester over 10 furlongs, the Aidan O'Brien-trained colt dropped back to a mile on Saturday and ran out a stunning winner of the Curragh Classic.

Afterwards, Coolmore supremo John Magnier suggested - by his own admission "tongue in cheek" - that he could go for the Derby, while conceding that Royal Ascot and the St James's Palace Stakes would be the more obvious route.

However speaking at the Curragh on Sunday, O'Brien said: "He pulled out fine from the race and he'll be left in the Derby tomorrow.

"The lads haven't made a decision yet. They'll get all the information about how he is and then make a decision. It's definitely possible.

"It (a mile and a half) would be a bit of a concern with what he did yesterday as he showed so much speed, but he got a mile and a quarter easily at Chester and he has a relaxed way of galloping."

Of the remainder of his Investec Derby squad, O'Brien added: "They'll all be left in but I'm not sure about Nevis."



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Great start for Sir John at the Curragh

Sun 26th May 2013, 14:12

Sir John Hawkins (nearside) beat Intensified (middle) and Sudirman at the Curragh
Sir John Hawkins (nearside) beat Intensified (middle) and Sudirman at the Curragh
(Healy Racing Photos)
Sir John Hawkins lacks nothing on pedigree and despite a little market unease the juvenile made a most pleasing debut when landing the Big Bad Bob European Breeders Fund (C & G) Maiden at the Curragh.

The mating of Henrythenavigator and Peeping Fawn was a match made in heaven and with his tongue lolling out, their son, Sir John Hawkins did them proud when travelling well throughout before prevailing in the six furlong opener under Joseph O'Brien.

When asked for his effort from over a furlong out, Sir John Hawkins quickened well inside the last to eventually see off the fancied pair, Intensified (the second favourite) and the front-runner, Sudirman (10s this morning into 11/2) by three parts of a length and a head.

Aidan O'Brien, the winning trainer, said: "You'd have to be delighted with that. I was afraid he might be a bit babyish but he got a lovely lead and loves the fast ground.

"What can I say – he is by Henry out of Peeping Fawn – all I can do is destroy him after that!

"He'll have learned plenty from that. Whether Royal Ascot would come too quick I'm not sure.

"He has loads of speed. He was a bit green today but he'll learn more by being up there." (GC & EM)



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Aidanobrienfansite has just hit 30,000 Unique Visitors from 76 nations -- 

Twitter Feed Has 485 Followers -- Youtube Channel has 52 subscribers with 

57,000+ Video Views some hefty milestones THANK YOU ALL 


 

 

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COOLMORE


Spellbinding Magician takes another Classic for Galileo 
(25th May 2013)

The incredible Galileo was responsible for another Classic winner on Saturday when Magician (3c Galileo-Absolutelyfabulous, by Mozart) took the G1 Irish 2,000 Guineas at the Curragh in fantastic style.

Joseph O’Brien bided his time aboard the G3 Dee Stakes winner before taking the lead two furlongs from home and finishing three and a half lengths clear of stablemate Gale Force Ten.

“The key to him is fast ground. He settles very well and has a great attitude,” O’Brien told irishracing.com.

Magician is trained by O’Brien’s father Aidan, who was winning his 29th Irish Classic, and he suggested a trip to Royal Ascot could be next on the agenda.

“We always thought he was very smart and he has a lot of class. He has the movement and looks and is an exciting horse,” said the trainer. “He’s a beautiful horse and has a lot of options now. I imagine next week (the G1 Epsom Derby) might come too quick for him. We’ll look forward to Ascot. He could go for the G1 St James’s Palace Stakes.

“He’s a very straightforward horse at home. He’s very calm, but very sharp. He’s by Galileo which makes him extra special. He’s uncomplicated which is a great sign of a horse usually. Everybody saw what he did at Chester. A mile and a quarter is no problem to him. He’s built like a miler, but stays further.”

Out of the Mozart mare Absolutelyfabulous, Magician hails from the outstanding family of Henrythenavigator.

Another great day for Galileo continued at Goodwood when Frankel’s brother Noble Mission (4c Galileo-Kind, by Danehill) took the Listed Tapster Stakes by four lengths.


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Magical Magician Takes Irish 2000 Guineas in Style and tipped up on 

here by me i really fancied him 29 Irish Classic for Aidan now


 

 



 





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Magician has all 2,000 Guineas aces

 By Michael GrahamSat 25th May 2013, 15:57

Magician romps home in the Irish 2,000 Guineas at the Curragh
Magician romps home in the Irish 2,000 Guineas at the Curragh
(Healy Racing Photos)
Magician showed his magic in the first Irish Classic of the season when decisively winning the 2,000 Guineas by three and a half lengths at 10/3.

Trading Leather and Kevin Manning set out to make the mile a proper test when racing into a clear lead.

He couldn’t keep up the pace though and when Joseph O’Brien sent his charge in pursuit two furlongs out the result was never in doubt.

A furlong and a half out Magician drew alongside Trading Leather and quickened away.

Gale Force Ten tried to chase him down, but could make no impact and had to settle for second at 7/1. He did though give Aidan O’Brien a one-two in the classic.

Trading Leather occupied third at 6/1 for Jim Bolger, beaten five lengths by the winner.

Joseph O’Brien commented: “The key to him fast ground. He settles very well and has a great attitude. You couldn’t say he wouldn’t stay further than a mile and a quarter.”

Aidan O’Brien said: “We always thought he was very smart and he has a lot of class. He has the movement and looks and is an exciting horse. You have to have a lot of speed in Chester [won Dee Stakes].

“Cristoforo Colombo wasn’t 100 per cent, but the owners made the right decision to come here with this horse. Joseph said he went to the line really strongly.

“He’s a beautiful horse and has a lot of options now. I imagine next week [Epsom Derby] might come too quick for him. We’ll look forward to Ascot. He could go for the St James’ Palace Stakes.

“He’s a very straightforward horse at home. He’s very calm, but very sharp. He’s by Galileo which makes him extra special. He’s uncomplicated which is a great sign of a horse usually.

“We are always happy when there’s pace on. It makes it more straightforward for everybody. To win a strongly run race over a mile at the Curragh you have to get a mile and a quarter.

“Everybody saw what he did at Chester. A mile and a quarter is no problem to him. He’s built like a miler, but stays further.”

Aidan O’Brien’s wife Anne Marie added: “He handled the ground very well. He closed the gap on the leader very easily. He has been working very well at home. Aidan had to rethink his plans for this race after Cristoforo Colombo had a setback.”

Owner John Magnier said: “Magician has plenty of pace in his breeding and has Galileo there too. We are really looking forward to Camelot tomorrow. The vets did a good job on him.”

Joseph O’Brien has had three rides in the Irish 2,000 Guineas and incredibly now three winners – Roderic O’Connor (2011), Power (2012) and Magician today. He now has ridden eight Irish classic winners in total.

This was a 29th Irish classic for Aidan O’Brien.

Additional reporting by Gary Carson

 




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Dettori in Ballydoyle mix

Sat 25th May 2013, 15:20

Frankie Dettori
Frankie Dettori
(Healy Racing Photos)

Aidan O'Brien has admitted Frankie Dettori is in the frame to ride for the stable this season.

The jockey is hoping to get clearance early next week from the French authorities to return to race-riding after his six-month worldwide ban and he has ridden work at Ballydoyle this spring.

Asked at the Curragh today if he would like to use Dettori this season, O'Brien said: "Absolutely, Frankie has always been a great rider, he still is and always will be."

O'Brien added that he hoped to finalise his Derby riding plans in the middle of the week.

He said: "We have a great team of riders and hopefully we will get the team sorted in middle of the week."

 


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Coach House moves through gears

 By Michael GrahamSat 25th May 2013, 14:41

Coach House and Joseph O'Brien in winning action at the Curragh
Coach House and Joseph O'Brien in winning action at the Curragh
(Healy Racing Photos)
Coach House put in a taking performance in the Listed Marble Hill at the Curragh when beating Club Wexford by a length and three parts.

Abbakova showed speed in this small but select field as she blazed a trail in the five furlong contest. However, at the furlong pole she was grabbed by Club Wexford and Coach House.

Joseph O’Brien asked Coach House to go on and the 4/6 favourite readily bounded away to put daylight between himself and Club Wexford (7/2).

Abbakova kept on for third at 16/1 under Pat Smullen, having been 33/1 in the morning.

Trainer Aidan O’Brien said: “We thought he was a nice horse. He won nicely last time. He’s a lovely two-year-old. He has speed enough for five so he has all the options at Royal Ascot.

“Joseph said he showed lots of speed and that he even got there a bit early on him. He’ll maybe get six or seven furlongs in time.”

Owner John Magnier added: “Maybe the five furlong Norfolk Stakes at Royal Ascot would be a race for him.”

Aidan O’Brien’s Stubbs was also due to contest this race, but was pulled out earlier today due to a stone bruise. This caused a shake-up in the market, but Coach House was still nicely backed down to 4/6.

Coach House improved O’Brien’s record in this race to nine wins from the last 15 renewals.

On his 2,000 Guineas favourite Magician, who runs at 3.20pm, Aidan O’Brien said: “He is in good form. He’s a good moving horse. A mile and a quarter on a sharp track at Chester would be equivalent to a mile here.”

Additional reporting by Gary Carson


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Glassatura turns over the hotpot

 By Michael GrahamSat 25th May 2013, 14:10

Glassatura, left, shows plenty of dash at the Curragh
Glassatura, left, shows plenty of dash at the Curragh
(Healy Racing Photos)
Bye Bye Birdie was nailed on the line by newcomer Glassatura (33/1) in the six furlong juvenile fillies maiden that got 2,000 Guineas day under way at the Curragh.

Glassatura was switched out to the centre of the track and sprouted wings in the final furlong under Shane Foley to wear down the 1/2 favourite who led throughout on the rail.

Joseph O’Brien on Bye Bye Birdie jumped out smartly from stall 12 and grabbed the stands-side rail in taking the field along.

A furlong and a half out he asked for more and it looked like the daughter of Oasis Dream would improve on her runner-up finish first-time out at Naas.

However, despite hitting 1/50 in-running, she couldn’t hold off Glassatura who was trapped behind horses before being switched out to deliver her challenge.

“She’s a very smart filly. She showed her class when she got out. She appreciated the six furlongs and she’ll improve a lot,” Shane Foley commented.

Trainer Michael Halford said: “She has shown us plenty form the start at home. We do like her and she could go on to better things. She got the trip well. She might go up in trip not back.

“We’ll step her up into a Listed race at Naas [3rd June]. We wanted to get a nice introduction into her and she did well to win from where she was.

“Shane said she was keen going to the start so he dropped her in and she was probably further back than he wanted to be.

“She accelerated well when she got into the clear. I expect her to come on from the run.”

Glassatura won by a neck from Bye Bye Birdie with Tap Dancing (13/2) a further three parts of a length away in third for David Wachman and Wayne Lordan.

The winner paid almost 67/1 on the Tote.

Patty Paige was withdrawn not under orders, after becoming restless in the stalls.

Additional reporting by Gary Carson




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Starspangled retired for the second time

Fri 24th May 2013, 09:19

Starspangledbanner on his way to victory in the 2010 Diamond Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot
Starspangledbanner on his way to victory in the 2010 Diamond Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot
(Healy Racing Photos)
Starspangledbanner is set to stand at Rosemont Stud in Australia after being retired from racing for the second time.

The seven-year-old was a Group One performer in Australia before being purchased by the Coolmore team and switched to the care of Aidan O'Brien in 2010.

He won the Diamond Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot that year as well as the July Cup before eventually being retired that autumn.

However, he returned to training last season after suffering fertility problems but failed to recapture his best in six starts, most recently finishing well down the field in Dubai.

Despite Starspangledbanner's previous problems, Rosemont principal Anthony Mithen is optimistic about his chances of a successful career at stud following the resurgence of another stallion, Foreplay, who also suffered fertility issues.

He said: "We will be trying some new fertility techniques that weren't available when Star last stood at stud. He is a little older and more mature and we take some real heart from the job that was done on Foreplay.

"Our bloodstock manager Dean Harvey oversaw the transformation of Foreplay from a sub-fertile stallion to a real commercial option, now batting at close to 80% fertility. Stem cell treatment really helped and from what we understand, Starspangledbanner and Foreplay's areas of concern are very similar," he told www.rosemontstud.com.au.

Starspangledbanner will serve a limited number of mares and his fee has yet to be decided.


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Dettori hopes for Derby return

Thu 23rd May 2013, 21:35

Frankie Dettori
Frankie Dettori
(Healy Racing Photos)
Frankie Dettori still hopes to be able to ride at next week's Investec Derby meeting after making some progress towards having his licence reinstated.

The 42-year-old rider had planned to be back in action this week after serving a six-month ban handed out by France Galop after he tested positive for cocaine at Longchamp last September.

However, a "private matter" between Dettori and the Medical Committee of France Galop has so far prevented the French regulator from clearing the jockey to return, with the British Horseracing Authority reciprocating that stance.

Dettori has been in France for the last two days trying to iron out the problem with France Galop and his solicitor Christopher Stewart-Moore believes progress has been made.

He told Press Association Sport: "The latest position is that Frankie Dettori has been in France for the last two days at France Galop.

"The matter has moved forward and we are expecting a positive result.

"We are hopeful that the glitch has been ironed out so that he can get his English licence in time to ride in the Derby."

BHA spokesman Robin Mounsey confirmed they are still awaiting the relevant information from France Galop and there has been no change in the position of racing's rulers.


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O'Brien finalises Derby team

Thu 23rd May 2013, 14:17

Battle Of Marengo
Battle Of Marengo
(Healy Racing Photos)
Champion Irish trainer Aidan O'Brien will rely upon Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial winner Battle Of Marengo and Mars as he bids to win the Investec Derby for a fourth time.

The Ballydoyle handler said his son, Joseph, was "short enough odds" to ride Battle Of Marengo in the Derby, and confirmed only 2000 Guineas sixth Mars alongside him, with plans to be made for the rest.

O'Brien explained that plans for his Derby team had yet to be made final. "It's all a little bit up in the air at the moment, but they are all in good shape so far," he said.

"Obviously Battle Of Marengo was always going to stay home for the two trials and the other horses were going to go for the trials elsewhere.

"We said after Newmarket that Mars would go for the Derby and he probably will end up going there as well. Obviously we have Ruler Of The World and Magician, and there are a few other options apart from that.

"We'll probably get towards the end of the week when they are doing their work, but they've all been together and done their half-speeds

"Joseph has always ridden Battle Of Marengo, I think he's probably short enough odds to ride him. Mars will go if everything else goes well with him between now and then. Whatever else goes, we're not 100% sure."

Although jockey bookings have yet to be firmed up, O'Brien expects that to be a straight forward issue once running plans have been confirmed.

"Obviously there's Seamie (Heffernan) and Colm (O'Donoghue) and Ryan (Moore) has also ridden for us. I don't think that's going to be a problem. All those things usually fall into place."


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O'brien Quartet Declared for Guineas

Thu 23rd May 2013, 12:22

Magician
Magician
(Healy Racing Photos)
Aidan O'Brien has declared a team of four as he goes for a ninth triumph in the Tattersalls Irish 2,000 Guineas at the Curragh on Saturday.

A field of 10 is set to line up for the colts' Classic, with the Ballydoyle trainer responsible for ante-post favourite Magician, Flying The Flag, George Vancouver and Gale Force Ten.

Johnny Murtagh was aboard three of the eight O'Brien winners and he aims to get his training career off to a flying start when he saddles Ask Dad and Fort Knox in the one-mile showpiece.

This race has so far eluded trainer Jim Bolger and the Coolcullen handler tries this time with Trading Leather, having removed his four other possibles.

First Cornerstone, trained in Northern Ireland by Andy Oliver, is set to make his seasonal debut in the Classic after a slight setback forced him to miss the Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial.

Richard Hannon has successfully plundered the Irish 2,000 Guineas three times and the Herridge handler sends a powerful duo in the shape of Van Der Neer, third in the Newmarket equivalent, and Havana Gold, who was fifth in the French version.



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Telescope is out of the Derby so Ryan Moore could ride for Ballydoyle in the race he will have Second choice so Mars or Ruler of the World.


Battle of Marengo & Mars Confirmed for the Derby the rest of the runners if any to be confirmed at a later stage. 


Massive Gamble on Magician for Irish Guineas a surprise entry heard rumors yesterday that he could run.



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         HAPPY 

          20TH 

      BIRTHDAY

        JOSEPH 






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    Camelot among Gold Cup nine

    Tue 21st May 2013, 13:52

    Camelot pictured winning at the Curragh earlier this month
    Camelot pictured winning at the Curragh earlier this month
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Last year's dual Derby hero Camelot tops five Aidan O'Brien-trained possibles for Sunday's Tattersalls Gold Cup at the Curragh.

    The four-year-old, who also won the 2000 Guineas at Newmarket last season, was struck down by colic after his run in the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe but reappeared this season with a straightforward win in the Mooresbridge Stakes.

    Also in the mix for the Ballydoyle team is last year's Oaks winner Was along with El Salvador, Windsor Palace and Ernest Hemingway.

    Al Kazeem has been given the green light to travel over by his trainer Roger Charlton after a good piece of work on Monday.

    Dermot Weld's Ribblesdale winner Princess Highway could still run, despite disappointing in the Blue Wind Stakes last week.

    David Wachman's Aloof and Joanna Morgan's Negotiate are the other possibles.



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    Was could return on Saturday

    Mon 20th May 2013, 16:19

    Was wins the Oaks
    Was wins the Oaks
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Last year's Oaks winner Was could make her seasonal return in the Group Three Abu Dhabi Stakes at the Curragh on Saturday.

    Aidan O'Brien's charge failed to win again in four starts after her Epsom victory, although she twice finished third in Group One company.

    She is the only Ballydoyle entry in the race, in which David Wachman has the choice of Aloof and Precious Stone, both of which are also owned by the Coolmore team.

    Sir Henry Cecil's Dahlia Stakes second Chigun and the Roger Charlton-trained third Thistle Bird could clash again while William Haggas' Sentaril is the other British-trained contender.

    The well-regarded Caponata has been entered by Dermot Weld while Ger Lyons' Lily's Angel has already won at Listed and Group Three level this term.

    Lady Wingshot, La Collina, Romantic Stroll and Sindjara complete the list of 11 possibles.



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    Curragh gearing up for big weekend

    Mon 20th May 2013, 17:05

    Cristoforo Colombo - Guineas favourite
    Cristoforo Colombo - Guineas favourite
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    The Guineas Spring Racing Festival gets under way at the Curragh next Saturday when the Tattersalls Irish 2000 Guineas is the highlight of an eight race card. There are a total of 19 entries for the Group One Classic, including the Johnny Murtagh trained and ridden Fort Knox and eight from the powerful Aidan O’Brien yard.

    Murtagh only received his licence to train from the Turf Club last Friday and the Co Meath-born man is really looking forward to Saturday. “I got the licence on Friday and it’s all systems go,” commented Murtagh today. “Fort Knox is a decent colt and will appreciate a decent bit of ground. We could not be happier with him and he is ready to put up a big showing. We supplemented Ask Dad for the race and he is likely to take his chance too.”

    Trainer Richard Hannon has left three in the race, including Newmarket 2000 Guineas third Van Der Neer, along with Olympic Glory (who got no run in the French 2000 Guineas from a bad draw) and Havana Gold. Cristoforo Colombo, Mars and George Vancouver, fifth, sixth and 10th respectively behind Dawn Approach at Newmarket, are the three main Aidan O’Brien hopes, but he also has Flying The Flag, Forester, Magician, Pedro The Great and French 2000 Guineas fourth Gale Force Ten to rely on. Meanwhile, trainer Andy Oliver has also committed First Cornerstone to the race.

    Jim Bolger has left four in the race, but the Co Carlow-based trainer is likely to plump for Loch Garman following that horse’s second placing behind Battle Of Marengo at Leopardstown just over a week ago. “He has come out of the Leopardstown race and the plan is to run him in Saturday’s race,” commented Bolger.

    Bookmaker Paddy Power have installed Cristoforo Colombo as there 3/1 favourite for the Tattersalls-sponsored race. They then go 100/30 Olympic Glory, 5/1 Van Der Neer, 7/1 Fort Knox, 8/1 Gale Force Ten, Loch Garman, Mars and Trading Leather, 12 George Vancouver, Magician and Havana Gold, 14/1 Pedro The Great, 16/1 Leitir Mor, 20/1 Bar.

    The Group Three Abu Dhabi Stakes has attracted 12 quality entries and will be one of the races of the weekend. Dermot Weld, who won this race 12 months ago with Emulous, will rely on Caponata this time around, while Kempton Listed winner Lily’s Angel is also primed to run along with Precious Stone, Sindjara, Was, La Colina and Aloof. There are three British-trained entries in Chigun, Sentaril and Thistle Bird.

    Gordon Lord Byron, Maarek, Jimmy Styles, Cape Of Approval, Hitchens, Slade Power and Gale Force Ten are among 20 entries for the Group Three Weatherbys Ireland Greenland Stakes, while there are 11 entries for the Listed Cold Move EBF Marble Hill Stakes.

    1st race 1.45pm

    Admission 20 euro, Seniors and Under 25s 10 euro, Under 16s Free. Trains to Kildare Town with free shuttle to racecourse. Dublin Coach service from Dublin to Curragh – see dublincoach.ie for details

    Entries for Sunday will be published at 12 noon tomorrow. The eight race programme will feature the Etihad Airways Irish 1000 Guineas, Tattersalls Gold Cup and President of the UAE Cup, while it is also Ladies Day with spectacular prizes for the Most Stylish Ladies and Men judged by Norah Casey and Aoibhin Garrihy of Fair City fame. Other attractions over both days include a Boutique Shopping and Food Village, Pamper Clinic for ladies with Shades & Shapes and display of the Etihad Formula One Ferrari Car.


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     Aidan O'Brien's  Half Moon to be tested by Mischief N Mayhem and Sharp Crisp Air



    Updated: Wednesday, 22 May 2013 13:41 | 0 Comments

    Aidan O'Brien
    Aidan O'Brien

    Aidan O'Brien is gearing up for a Classic weekend and warms up with just one runner at Clonmel on Thursday.

    Half Moon has a Classic pedigree in her own right, in that she is out of Irish 1000 Guineas and dual Oaks runner-up Quarter Moon, and she was only one place behind subsequent Group Three-winning stablemate Just Pretending on her Dundalk comeback.

    She drops back slightly in trip for the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Maiden, which kicks off proceedings at 5.55pm, and has most to fear from the slightly more experienced pair of Mischief N Mayhem and Sharp Crisp Air.

    The latter's trainer, Dermot Weld, is represented in the Fethard Maiden by Treasure The Ridge.

    A Galileo gelding from the family of High Chaparral, he hasn't hit the heights perhaps expected of him so far but a repeat of his latest third at Limerick would be good enough for him to take a hand in this finish, with the step up to a mile and a quarter also in his favour.

    Longshadow got off the mark on his handicap debut at Wexford last Saturday and Patrick Prendergast turns him out again quickly under a penalty in the 'Girls Night Out At Clonmel Races' Handicap before the assessor takes his revenge.

    Time Travel has been given slightly longer to recover from his surprise Dundalk defeat of The Black Devil, although the runner-up re-opposes on 3lb better terms in the Jossestown Handicap.

    The National Hunt action gets under way with the Clonacody (C & G) Maiden Hurdle, in which Elijah Gardner attempts to build on his improved effort to finish third at Kilbeggan at the beginning of the month.

    Sulki Rose was just touched off at Down Royal and has a 3lb rise to contend with in the Powerstown Park Handicap Hurdle, while Faustina Pius has let down favourite-backers the last twice and bids for redemption in the Team Tipperary GAA Race Evening June 14th Mares Maiden Hurdle.


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    Godolphin drugs scandal with St Leger winner Encke casts shadow over Camelot's doomed Triple Crown quest

    The 2012 St Leger could have raised one horse to immortality. Instead, the race will forever be tainted



    Flashpoint: Encke (right) wins the 2012 St Leger to deny Camelot (left) the Triple Crown
    Flashpoint: Encke (right) wins the 2012 St Leger to deny Cameot (left) the Triple Crown Photo: GETTY IMAGES


    A shadow cast by Encke’s positive test is that his victory in last year’s St Leger 

    prevented Camelot from becoming the first since Nijinsky in 1970 to win Flat racing’s

    Triple Crown.


    Mahmood Al Zarooni’s winner tested clean that day at Doncaster but the ramifications

    are still grave for the racing game.


    Encke’s triumph in the sport’s oldest Classic at 25-1 was a shock that foiled a 

    Corinthian quest by the owners of Camelot, who happen to be the great rival clan to

    Godolphin, now reeling again from the discovery that seven more horses from Al 

    Zarooni’s were shown to have been injected with steroids.


    Twenty-two horses in Al Zarooni’s care are known to have been doped by their trainer

    in racing’s biggest modern cheating scandal.


    Encke’s positive result, though, is a disaster all by itself. It casts doubt on a whole 

    season of Flat racing and requires an asterisk to be placed next to the final Classic of 

    2012.


    Though the horse was clean in that race, the fact that he had steroids in him at the start of this season will raise valid suspicions about what he might have been given last year.


    The so-called Coolmore mafia, whose trainer is Aidan O’Brien, must be tempted to

    exact the maximum PR victory from Godolphin’s shame.


    Even if there is no clear evidence of skulduggery when Camelot set off for the final leg of the Triple Crown after winning the 2,000 Guineas and Derby, the details of the Doncaster race are under intense scrutiny.


    Camelot, the 2-5 favourite, was the standard bearer for the Coolmore operation. John

    Magnier, one of his owners, claimed to be motivated by a romantic urge to see 

    another Nijinsky grace the turf.


    Had Camelot prevailed then O’Brien would have become the first trainer to win all five

    British Classics in a single season.


    In the race Camelot was held at the back of the field by his jockey Joseph O’Brien, 

    and encountered traffic problems in the home straight. Encke, who ran on the orders

    of Sheikh Mohammed, Godolphin’s owner, got first run on Camelot and won by three

    quarters of a length: still a narrow margin in a mile and three quarter contest.

    Camelot’s defeat was blamed partly on his hard race in swampy conditions in the

    Irish Derby.


    After the race Al Zarooni said: “I thought Camelot would catch us as I remembered

    the way he quickened in the Derby [but] I knew Encke was tough and would keep

    going.”



    The 2012 Leger is entering the realms of infamy. This was the race that Frankie

    Dettori says caused him to dabble with cocaine to lift his spirits after the Encke ride

    was assigned to Mickael Barzalona, his rival in the Godolphin camp.


    Dettori’s subsequent decision to ride Camelot in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe 

    hastened the end of his relationship with Godolphin. Dettori has yet to ride again 

    after his six-month ban for testing positive for cocaine in France.


    Again there is no evidence of a conspiracy to stop Camelot heaping glory on the

    Coolmore operation at Doncaster but the BHA now needs to retrace its steps and re-

    examine Encke’s dope tests in 2012.


    The BHA says he was tested after two of his four races: at York on Aug 22 and again

     after the St Leger on Sept 15. Clarification is needed on the steroids for which Al

     Zarooni’s horses tested positive and how long they can stay in a horse’s system.



    That information is vital to assess whether an illegal substance could have been 

    administered to Encke between Aug 22 and Sept 15 without showing up in the

    second of those tests.


    This is the kind of rigorous investigation racing needs if it is to restore confidence in an industry that has been shaken by race-fixing and now doping scandals.

    The clean bill for Saeed bin Suroor’s yard is the welcome part. It shows the problem to be confined to Al Zarooni’s Moulton Paddocks stable, which Bin Suroor is now clear to add to his existing stock.


    But that brings only fleeting relief. The scale of Al Zarooni’s cheating only

    accentuates the need to find out who, if anyone, assisted him.

    His appeal against an eight-year ban from the sport could yet bring new revelations,

    assuming he proceeds with it.


    The BHA, whose zero-tolerance policy on performance enhancing drugs is to be

    applauded, has acted decisively so far, but must avoid the impression of cosying up

    to Sheikh Mohammed and Godolphin to stop them fleeing British racing.


    Sheikh Mohammed himself should volunteer to be interviewed about Al Zarooni. 

    Turning on his heels when questioned on television at Newmarket will not repair the

    damage to Godolphin’s reputation.


    The 2012 St Leger, meanwhile, may be beyond rescue. Camelot’s doomed Triple

    Crown mission will always be clouded in doubt. The damage is spreading.

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    TIMEFORM Ballydoyle Global Rankings European Division Stubbs is ...the highest rated 2yo in Europe, 10 from Ballydoyle in rankings


     

     



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                  Camelot robbed of the Triple Crown


    I can't tell you how angry i feel today i have never felt so sad or deflated and i have to admit I cried like a baby after the Leger i never felt so depressed. But now today we find out that the Leger winner has failed a steroid drugs test i feel so sad that CAMELOT he was denied HISTORY because of cheats its just disgraceful. 

    And although Encke did not fail a drugs test after the Leger the effects of Anabolic Steroids would have been present
    muscles + performance long after they have left the system +

    it becomes undetectable it all leaves us wondering what might have

    been JUSTICE FOR CAMELOT.


     

     



    Leger winner Encke among seven more Godolphin horses to fail drugs test


    Last year's Ladbrokes St Leger winner Encke is one of seven horses to have returned a positive test for an anabolic steroid following further testing at the yard of Mahmood Al Zarooni.


    The BHA undertook an extensive testing programme at the yard of the trainer following his eight-year suspension after he admitted adminstering banned drugs to 15 horses in his care.


    The BHA testing has now uncovered another seven horses, including the Doncaster winner, who have returned positive results for the steroid stanozolol.

    Testing at the other Godolphin yard of Saeed bin Suroor returned no positive results for banned substances, the BHA said.




    In the dock: Seven more horses trained by Mahmood Al Zarooni have tested positive

    In the dock: Seven more horses trained by Mahmood Al Zarooni 

    have tested positive

    High profile: Encke won the St Leger last season, one of the biggest flat races in the country

    High profile: Encke won the St Leger last season, 




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    Joseph talks about the disappointing performance of Declaration of

    War - thanks to Jason Doyle


     



    Voleuse gets her revenge on Salvador

     By Donal MurphySun 19th May 2013, 16:42

    Voleuse De Coeurs is driven out by Pat Smullen to beat Missunited and El Salvador
    Voleuse De Coeurs is driven out by Pat Smullen to beat Missunited and El Salvador
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    After being beaten by El Salvador at Limerick on her seasonal debut, Voleuse De Coeurs got her revenge this afternoon as she took the Listed Coolmore Vintage Crop Stakes under Pat Smullen for Dermot Weld.

    The four-year-old daughter of Teofilo won the Cesarewitch at the Curragh last October by an impressive ten lengths but she was beaten into second by El Salvador on her first start of 2013 at Limerick last month, over a mile and a half.

    Stepped back up in trip this afternoon to a mile and three quarters, the Lady O’Reilly owned bay was settled behind the leaders and was fourth at the halfway stage.

    She travelled well over two furlongs out and she just edged ahead at the furlong pole, staying on well under pressure from there to score by two lengths at the line.

    Missunited (10/1) lost little in defeat as she finished a brave second under Seamie Heffernan for Michael Winters while El Salvador (5/4fav) could only manage third, a further four and a half lengths back under Joseph O’Brien for his father Aidan.

    Dermot Weld said afterwards: "I see her as being very progressive and possibly an outstanding stayer. I thought she would win and this is a race I wanted to win.

    "She was very good over staying distances last year. She is entered in the Ascot Gold Cup but that might be a bit soon for here. She could go for the Curragh Cup and then the Irish St Leger and she could be a Gold Cup horse next year.

    "Conditions were perfect for her today, she always wants a little ease in the ground.

    "Navan deserve credit for the efforts they made today with the track and facilities for kids are excellent here today."

    Additional reporting by Michael Graham


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    Plinth made to work hard at Navan

     By Michael GrahamSun 19th May 2013, 17:30

    Plinth sheds hid maiden tag at Navan
    Plinth sheds hid maiden tag at Navan
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Jockey Joseph O’Brien brought up a Navan double for his father Aidan and himself when guiding Plinth home by half a length in the mile and five maiden at Navan.

    The 5/4 favourite hit the front over a furlong out, but was hard pressed all the way to the line by his market rival Mourani (7/4) on the inside. John Oxx’s Mourani had led throughout and didn’t give best until late on.

    Jim Bolger’s Teocht kept on well into third to be beaten a length by the winner at odds of 12/1.

    Plinth was nicely backed this morning from 9/4 to 6/4. Joseph O’Brien commented: “He’s improving with racing and got to the front a bit soon.”

    Plinth holds an entry in the Group 2 King Edward VII Stakes at Ascot.





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



    Stubbs eases to maiden success

     By Donal MurphySun 19th May 2013, 15:06

    Stubbs & Joseph O'Brien on their way to victory
    Stubbs & Joseph O'Brien on their way to victory
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    The well-bred Stubbs got off the mark on the second time of asking as he ran out a comfortable winner of the Requinto EBF Maiden over five furlongs.

    The Aidan O’Brien trained son of Danehill Dancer (quick double for the sire after True Verdict took the first), finished third on his debut at the Curragh in March in the first 2yo maiden of the year.

    He was sent off the 4/5 favourite to oblige this afternoon and he hit the front over a furlong from home, stretching clear from there to win by four and a half lengths at the line.

    Treadstone kept to take second under Wayne Lordan for Tommy Stack at 16/1 while The Organ Grinder was a length and a half back in third at 11/4 for Chris Hayes and Kevin Prendergast.

    Winning rider Joseph O'Brien said afterwards: "He travelled well and quickened up well. He is bred to get further so he’ll be a nice horse for next year over a trip".

    The winner, who holds an entry in the Group 1 Phoenix Stakes at the Curragh in August, is out of Moonstone who won the Irish Oaks back in 2008 for Aidan O’Brien.

    He is also a half-brother to Nevis, who is Epsom Derby bound after his easy win in the Betfred Derby Trial Stakes at Lingfield last weekend.

    Additional reporting by Michael Graham


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    Joseph O'Brien says we will only have 2 or 3 in Derby a max of 4 we 

    won't be there mob handed i'm leaning towards Battle of Marengo


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




    24 remain in Derby 7 for APOB - Battle Of Marengo - Festive Cheer - Flying The

    Flag - Magician - Mars - Nevis - Ruler Of The World


    14 left in Oaks 3 for APOB - Snow Queen - Say - Moth




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    O'BRIEN ON WAR-FOOTING AT NEWBURY
    17 May 2013

    Joseph O'Brien admits Declaration Of War faces by far the stiffest test of his career in Saturday's JLT Lockinge Stakes at Newbury on Saturday.

    The winner of five of his six starts to date, the four-year-old is jumping up in class from winning a Listed race on his reappearance, although he did win a Group Three contest at Dundalk last October. That leaves him with plenty to find on the figures for this prestigious race but he has been heavily backed all week with the expectancy that he will handle the rise in grade in his stride.

    Aidan O'Brien has several options in all the middle-distance Group Ones this summer, but a victory for Declaration Of War could make him the go-to horse for the main events.

    His jockey said: "He's progressed through the ranks steadily since he joined us and he's been very good. This is his biggest test by far, though.

    "He won over one-mile-three at Dundalk but he won over a mile in France before he joined us and then won over a mile at Leopardstown last time out, he's very versatile regarding his trip.

    "The quicker the ground the better for him, I think, because his best performance for us was at Dundalk. He met plenty of trouble that day and did really well to win. If he were to win this he'd have plenty of options for the rest of the season because he's already shown he stays further than this."


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    8 2YO NAMED TODAY INCLUDING 2 ON OUR LIST 3 Colt 5 Filly 

    Adelaide (19/2/11) - Galileo ex Elletelle *Just Named

    Illinois (8/2/11) - Galileo ex Chintz *Just Named
    Mekong River (10/1/11) - Galileo ex Simply Perfect *Just Named

    Perhaps (7/5/11) - Galileo ex Anna Karenia *Just Named
    Minorette (19/3/11) - Smart Strike ex Silk & Scarlet *Just Named
    Bracelet (24/1/11) - Montjeu ex Cherry Hinton *Just Named
    Dazzling (1/5/11) - Galileo ex Secret Garden *Just Named
    Ruby Tuesday (2/2/11) - Galileo ex Jude *Just Named


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    O'Brien plots Lockinge raid

    Thu 16th May 2013, 11:47

    Declaration Of War runs in the Lockinge
    Declaration Of War runs in the Lockinge 
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Aidan O'Brien's Declaration Of War, a midweek gamble for the JLT Lockinge Stakes at Newbury on Saturday, heads a field of 13 for the first Group One of the season for older horses.

    The former Jean-Claude Rouget-trained colt was available at 7-2 on Monday but sustained support now has him as the clear favourite around the 7-4 mark.

    O'Brien also runs Reply.

    Saeed bin Suroor's Farhh, second in four Group Ones last season, twice behind Frankel, makes his eagerly-awaited reappearance in a race his trainer has won four times.

    Roger Charlton's Cityscape avoided Frankel last season as he was in the same Khalid Abdullah ownership but he suffered his own near-misses behind Excelebration.

    This year he is likely to stay at home rather than travelling around Europe.

    John Gosden supplemented Fencing after an impressive display at Ascot on his first run as a gelding.

    Beauty Parlour is an intriguing runner for Sir Henry Cecil.

    Last year's French 1000 Guineas winner and Oaks runner-up has only had one prior run for Cecil when she disappointed in the Sun Chariot Stakes.

    Roger Varian has always highly rated Aljamaaheer but so far he was been found wanting when upped in class.

    Richard Hannon won the race in 2010 and 2011 with Paco Boy and Canford Cliffs respectively but his representative this year, Trumpet Major, will need a career-best here.

    Hannon also runs Libranno, the mount of Kieren Fallon.

    Connections of David O'Meara's Penitent, last seen in Hong Kong at Sha Tin, will be hoping for rain.

    Chil The Kite, Sovereign Debt and German raider Amaron complete the field.


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



    Hanky shows an impressive turn of foot

     By Donal MurphyWed 15th May 2013, 20:48

    Hanky Panky & Joseph O'Brien on their way to victory
    Hanky Panky & Joseph O'Brien on their way to victory
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Aidan O’Brien won this race, the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Maiden, in 2007 with subsequent four time Group 1 winner Peeping Fawn and the Ballydoyle maestro could have another Group 1 winner on his hands as Hanky Panky showed an impressive turn of foot to get off the mark on the fifth time of asking.

    The daughter of Galileo is a half-sister to the mighty Giant’s Causeway and it has been well publicised that she needs a sound surface to be seen at her best.

    She disappointed in the past on soft and heavy ground but on yielding to soft this evening she quickened up well to hit the front a furlong out, going on to score by a length and a quarter at the line.

    The Kevin Prendergast trained Nabat Sultan (12/1) travelled strongly two furlongs from home but she couldn't match Hanky Panky and had to settle for second.

    Sharp Crisp Air, who was backed from 7/2 to 5/2 on-course, finished three and three parts of a length back in third under Pat Smullen for Dermot Weld.

    Joseph O'Brien said afterwards; "She relaxed well and she quickened up nicely. She is a nice filly but she needs good ground and that’s the best she’s had for a while even though it’s quite dead.

    "The hood relaxed her a bit. She has been unlucky and we thought she’d win her maiden on slow ground even though she wants it better. A couple of things didn’t go right for her."

    Additional reporting by Gary Carson


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    St Nic among Coronation twelve

    Wed 15th May 2013, 14:46

    St Nicholas Abbey will be bidding for his third straight Coronation Cup win
    St Nicholas Abbey will be bidding for his third straight Coronation Cup win
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    St Nicholas Abbey is on course to attempt to become the first horse to win the Investec Coronation Cup three times.

    The Aidan O'Brien-trained six-year-old heads the 12 entries for the mile-and-a-half Group One at Epsom on June 1st following the latest scratchings deadline.

    St Nicholas Abbey, who beat Midday in 2011 and swept to victory from Red Cadeaux last year, took his Group One tally to five when lifting the Dubai Sheema Classic at Meydan in March.

    O'Brien has a strong back-up squad in Chamonix, El Salvador, Ernest Hemingway and Imperial Monarch.

    Connections of Dandino will look at this race for the Group Two winner, whose main target in 2013 is the Melbourne Cup.

    The six-year-old, fourth in this race in 2011, shaped with promise on his first run for trainer Marco Botti when runner-up in the Qipco Jockey Club Stakes at Newmarket.

    "We are considering the Coronation Cup for Dandino. The owners have told me to leave him in the race and we will just monitor the ground because he is a fast-ground horse," said Botti.

    "The long-term plan is the Melbourne Cup and, although it would be good to win the Coronation Cup, we have to be mindful of his handicap mark for Australia.

    "If the race cut up and the ground is fine we might just have a look because the Hardwicke Stakes at Royal Ascot, which is also an option, can be just a tough as a Group One now it has no penalties."

    International interest is provided by 2011 Melbourne Cup victor Dunaden, trained in France by Mikel Delzangles, and Very Nice Name, who has been left in by Qatari-based Alban de Mieulle and was last seen when third behind St Nicholas Abbey at Meydan.

    The list of possibles is completed by 2012 Derby second Main Sequence, Chapter Seven, Joshua Tree and Sir Graham Wade.



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    Marchese Marconi coasts home

     By Michael GrahamTue 14th May 2013, 20:49

    Joseph O'Brien rode a winner for his mum Anne-Marie
    Joseph O'Brien rode a winner for his mum Anne-Marie
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    It looked only a matter of time before Marchese Marconi swallowed up frontrunner Baltiman in the finale at Killarney and so it proved as Joseph O’Brien pressed the button in the home straight and away the pair went went.

    The top weight coasted home by six lengths to justify 4/6 favouritism in the one mile six race. Nouveau Moulin (5/1) hung right in the home straight, but the six-year-old mare ran a creditable race to come in second on her first outing on the ‘flat’ after running in bumpers.

    Aidan O’Brien trains the four-year-old son of Galileo for his wife Anne-Marie. His son Joseph commented after dismounting: “He did what he was entitled to do and he stays well. He won a middling race nicely and I’m hoping he’ll handle nice ground.

    Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes


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    Indian out to prove he's the Chief

    Tue 14th May 2013, 11:17

    Indian Chief runs in the Dante at York
    Indian Chief runs in the Dante at York
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Aidan O'Brien's Indian Chief heads a field of eight for the Betfred Dante Stakes at York on Thursday.

    O'Brien has carried all before him recently on the Derby trials front and his latest candidate was impressive in winning a Leopardstown maiden last month.

    In the shock absence of Telescope, the Highclere Thoroughbred Racing operation rely solely on the Luca Cumani-trained Greatwood, who missed the Lingfield Derby Trial on Saturday due to rain-softened ground.

    Kieren Falllon would not have been able to ride at the weekend due to suspension but is back in action on the Knavesmire.

    Saeed bin Suroor seeks a third Dante success with Secret Number, who lost his unbeaten record when third to O'Brien's Lines Of Battle in the UAE Derby. He will be ridden by Silvestre de Sousa.

    Mark Johnston's Windhoek (Joe Fanning) has already run twice this season, picking up a valuable sales prize at Newmarket - where he edged Greatwood - and following up back on the Rowley Mile in a Listed event.

    Ghurair for John Gosden further represents that sales race at Newmarket as he was third that day, while Jim Bolger runs an interesting contender in Trading Leather, last seen finishing fifth in the Racing Post Trophy to Kingsbarns.

    David Elsworth's Dashing Star and the Elaine Burke-trained Libertarian complete the line-up.



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    One of Ballydoyle's biggest Derby Rivals Telescope Derby Run In Doubt.

    Telescope put on antibiotics after grazing legs. If run in Derby, will have to go straight there without prep race it is confirmed that he will now bypass the Dante


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    Five in-a-row for Marengo

     By Donal MurphySun 12th May 2013, 16:32

    Battle Of Marengo & Joseph O'Brien on their way to victory from Loch Garman in second
    Battle Of Marengo & Joseph O'Brien on their way to victory from Loch Garman in second
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Battle Of Marengo underlined his Epsom Derby credentials as he eased to victory in the feature race at Leopardstown this afternoon, the Group 2 Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial Stakes.

    Trained by Aidan O’Brien and ridden by Joseph (double on the day for them), the son of Galileo was completing a five timer today as he went off the 2/13 favourite (was 1/3 this morning and opened at 1/5 on-course).

    Having settled in second behind Dont Bother Me he took over in front four furlongs out. He was ridden a furlong from home and he kept on strongly in the final furlong to come home a comfortable length and three parts in front of Loch Garman (9/2) in second for Jim Bolger and Kevin Manning.

    Aidan O'Brien said afterwards: "That all went to plan. We had to go on with him or it would have been a very steady pace.

    "He has just ticked over since the last day. You would have to be happy with him. He is lazy in front but he gave a good blow afterwards.

    "He loves fast ground as he is a great mover.

    "The three owners will decide where he goes next. It’s going to be an interesting Dante now (Dante Stakes at York on May 16th, Indian Chief the likely O’Brien runner).

    Boylesports shortened Dawn Approach for the Derby after the win to 6/4 from 7/4. They also shortened Battle Of Marengo from 5/1 to 4/1.

    Additional reporting by Michael Graham


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    'Funny lady' wins the 1000 Guineas Trial

     By Donal MurphySun 12th May 2013, 15:52

    Joseph O'Brien drives out Just Pretending to beat Hint Of A Tint on the outside
    Joseph O'Brien drives out Just Pretending to beat Hint Of A Tint on the outside
    After winning her maiden at Navan last Tuesday, the Aidan O’Brien trained Just Pretending (6/1) followed up in the Group 3 Derrinstown Stud 1000 Guineas Trial at Leopardstown this afternoon.

    Ridden by Joseph O’Brien, the daughter of Giant’s Causeway raced in third in the early stages behind the 13/8 favourite We’ll Go Walking.

    The Jim Bolger trained favourite was headed two furlongs out and she quickly faded eventually finishing last under Kevin Manning.

    Just Pretending took over in front two furlongs out and she kept on well from there to hold off the challenge of the David Wachman trained, Fran Berry ridden, Hint Of A Tint (6/1) by a neck at the line.

    The Mick Halford trained Mizzava was a further two and a quarter lengths back in third under Shane Foley at the odds of 14/1.

    Aidan O’Brien said afterwards: "She is a funny lady. She gives trouble at the stalls and needs to be loaded early.

    "She has loads of ability and she showed that at Navan. She could go for the Guineas now and she might step up to a mile and a quarter. She is a fine big filly."

    The winner is a half-sister to the Grade 3 winner in the US called The Leopard, who cost $2,500,000 as a two-year-old.

    Additional reporting by Michael Graham




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    Maarek, Gale & Flag in action at Longchamp

    Sun 12th May 2013, 12:49

    Maarek will be ridden by Jamie Spencer in the Group 3 Prix St George
    Maarek will be ridden by Jamie Spencer in the Group 3 Prix St George
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Aidan O'Brien is double-handed in the Poule D'essai Poulains (French 1000 Guineas) at Longchamp this afternoon, with Gale Force Ten and Flying The Flag.

    Ryan Moore will be on Dundalk Listed winner Gale Force Ten while Colm O'Donoghue will be in the plate on Flying The Flag, who will be making his seasonal bow.

    Joseph O'Brien has ridden both horses in the past but will have to forgo a trip to France in order to ride leading Derby hopeBattle Of Marengo at Leopardstown.

    He said: "Gale Force Ten is a good horse and won nicely in Dundalk over seven furlongs.

    "He's stepping up to a mile now and there is a bit of a question mark, but hopefully he'll run a good race. Flying The Flag won his maiden and was second to First Cornerstone in the Futurity, but disappointed after that. Hopefully he'll come back and run a nice race."

    Elsewhere on the card the David Nagle trained Maarek takes his chance in the Group 3 Prix St George.

    Jamie Spencer will ride the ultra consistent six-year-old who will be bidding for a hat-trick of wins having scored at Ascot and Naas on his last two outings.


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    Derby Trial preview

    Sun 12th May 2013, 10:31

    Battle Of Marengo
    Battle Of Marengo
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Jockey Joseph O'Brien is hoping the rain stays away from Leopardstown to allow Battle Of Marengo to show his full potential in the Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial this afternoon.

    The Galileo colt moved to the top of Ballydoyle's Derby pecking order with a most impressive performance in the Ballysax Stakes on his seasonal return.

    He now follows a tried-and-tested route by aiming to follow up in the Derrinstown, a race Aidan O'Brien has won nine times, including with subsequent Epsom Derby heroes Galileo (2001) and High Chaparral (2002).

    Battle Of Marengo is currently second in the Epsom betting, behind Jim Bolger's 2000 Guineas victor Dawn Approach, and although he has shown an ability to handle testing ground, O'Brien jnr feels Ballydoyle's inmate will be even more potent on a sound surface.

    He said: "I'd be hoping the rain stays away as, although he has run very well on heavy ground, he is definitely a better horse on better ground.

    "One of his best performances was when he won in Leopardstown last year on good ground. The saddle slipped that day and he still broke the track record.

    "I'd love to get him on a bit of nicer ground again and, hopefully, he'll get that on Sunday. He was good in the Ballysax, it was his first run of the year and hopefully he'll have come on for that.

    "This isn't the be all and end all, it's his second run, and hopefully he'll come on again. I think it looks a better Derrinstown than it has for the last couple of seasons - hopefully we get some nice ground."

    Just five runners go to post and the chief opponent to Battle Of Marengo appears to be the Bolger-trained Loch Garman.

    The son of Teofilo did not make his debut until winning at Navan last October, the form of which has worked out well, and he was turned out just a week later to land the Group One Criterium International at Saint-Cloud.

    While he makes his reappearance over a mile and a quarter, Bolger is considering dropping his charge in trip after this weekend for a tilt at the Irish 2,000 Guineas.

    Bolger said: "All is good with him and he doesn't mind about the ground. He's a horse with plenty of toe and he could come back (in trip) for the Irish 2,000 Guineas. He's in the Irish Derby later on."

    Andrew Oliver expects First Cornerstone to benefit from his first outing since he finished fourth to the O'Brien-trained Kingsbarns in the Racing Post Trophy at Doncaster last October.

    "He has developed physically and we are very happy with him," the County Tyrone trainer told At The Races.

    "We had a hold-up with our gallops earlier in the year so all of my horses were quite behind and are taking a run anyway. Having said that I'm fairly happy with his preparation but I expect him to come on for the run.

    "We hope he is well equipped with both speed and stamina to deal with stepping up in trip and being able to travel well and quicken."

    The quintet is completed by Dont Bother Me, who makes a swift return for Niall Moran having finished eighth in the 2000 Guineas, and John Oxx's Dundalk maiden winner Little White Cloud.

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    Nevis lands Lingfield Derby trial

    Sat 11th May 2013, 16:00

    Nevis, seen here winning at Leopardstown
    Nevis, seen here winning at Leopardstown
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Nevis (4/9f) made light work of his rivals following the late withdrawal of Greatwood ahead of the Lingfield Derby trial.

    With the ground officially changed to soft, the decision to withdraw the likely market leader was made but Aidan O'Brien's colt wasn't aware of the circumstances and he duly slammed his three rivals by an easy nine lengths.

    Elidor plugged to be a remote second with Pasaka third.

    Kevin Buckley, Coolmore's UK representative, said of the winner: "The ground changing wasn't ideal, but he had travelled a long way and there was no point not running.

    "He handled it OK, and he won decisively.

    "It will be up to Aidan what he does once he has seen the rest of the trials."

    Luca Cumani said of Greatwood: "We didn't run because of the ground and he will either go for the Dante and then the Derby, or the old Predominate at Goodwood then miss the Derby and go to Royal Ascot."

    Sky Bet cut the winnner into 25/1 from 40/1 for the Investec Derby.

    Sky Bet's Richard Horner said: "After the defection of Greatwood, Nevis was left with little to beat but he did it will and may well be one of the Ballydoyle battalion heading to Epsom to take on Dawn Approach. However, he's unlikely to be the first string if Battle of Marengo does his stuff tomorrow and a place may be his best hope."


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    Preview for Sunday racing at Leopardstown

    Updated: Saturday, 11 May 2013 14:20 | 0 Comments

    Battle Of Marengo
    Battle Of Marengo

    Aidan O'Brien has enjoyed plenty of success across the Irish Sea this week and Battle Of Marengo attempts to put himself at the top of the Ballydoyle Epsom contenders in the Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial at Leopardstown on Sunday.

    The Galileo colt signed off his juvenile campaign with victory in the Beresford Stakes and picked up where he left off, defying his Group Two penalty at the expense of subsequent Sandown winner Sugar Boy in the Ballysax.

    He now crosses swords with Jim Bolger's unbeaten Group One winner Loch Garman, as well as Futurity hero First Cornerstone, with Dont Bother Me and Little White Cloud rounding out the field.

    There are further Classic clues on offer in the Derrinstown Stud 1,000 Guineas Trial and Rawaaq tries to repeat last month's success, stepping up from seven furlongs.

    Standing in her way is We'll Go Walking, who lost little in defeat against the year-older Caponata at Gowran Park but may need further than this mile.

    Ralston Road was second to We'll Go Walking at the start of April and that form sets the standard in the FM104 Strawberry Alarm Clock Family Days Maiden, while Shadow Eile reverts to the level for the Horse Racing Ireland Pensioners Handicap on the back of a Grade One second at the Punchestown Festival.

    Duntle hasn't been seen in public since losing the Matron Stakes in the stewards' room, but David Wachman has spotted a nice point of return for her in the Amethyst Stakes.

    She has four rivals to beat, including Bold Thady Quill, who had the re opposing Sweet Lightning a couple of places behind when chasing home Declaration Of War in the Heritage Stakes.

    Heart Focus and Ealain Aibrean both hit the crossbar on their racecourse introductions and lock horns in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Auction Maiden, which starts the fixture off at 2.25pm.



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    Runaway victory for favourite Aiden O'Brien's Say in Cork

    Updated: Friday, 10 May 2013 21:24 | 0 Comments

    The O'Brien's scored with favourite Say in Cork
    The O'Brien's scored with favourite Say in Cork

    Say opened her account at the third attempt with a runaway victory in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Maiden at Cork.

    Joseph O'Brien never had a moment's worry on the 1-6 favourite, trained by his father Aidan, and she simply pulled further and further clear, beating Silky Pyrus by nine lengths.

    Ghaamer opened his account at the third attempt with an accomplished display from the front in the Follow Us On Facebook Maiden.

    Pat Smullen was happy to bowl along in front on the 1-3 favourite and though Point Piper made sure he had to work for the win, Ghaamer came home two and a quarter lengths in front.

    Cape Of Approval shrugged off a welter burden to land the Corkracecourse.ie Race for Tommy Stack.

    Favourite Parliament Square cut out the early running, but once Wayne Lordan pushed the 2-1 winner into the lead on the home straight, the race was never in doubt, with Bracing breeze plugging on for third, a length and three-quarters back.

    The Four Elms produced a taking effort to land the valuable Follow corkracecourse On Twitter Handicap.

    Held up off the pace by Connor King, the 11-4 chance swept into the lead over a furlong out and went on to beat Gunner Lindley by two lengths.

    Willie McCreery continued his rich vein of form when September Lily stayed on well to land the first division of the Social package Handicap.

    Shane Kelly was on board the 6-4 favourite as she made it four wins in a week for McCreery, finishing her race well to beat Great Ability by two and a quarter lengths.

    The second division produced a stunning effort from Conor O'Dwyer's College Boy.

    Out with the washing on four previous starts on the level, the 10-1 chance burst through a gap a furlong out and sped clear under Fran Berry, eventually recording a two and a half-length verdict over Cookie Crumbles.

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    Magician tops O'Brien's derby trialists

    Updated: Friday, 10 May 2013 19:15 | 0 Comments

    Magician (left) under Ryan Moore was an impressive winner of the Dee Stakes at Chester
    Magician (left) under Ryan Moore was an impressive winner of the Dee Stakes at Chester

    Little is given away by the Coolmore camp but the hints were there that Magician could well be the superior of their two Chester Derby trial winners this week.

    Although he landed the BetVictor.com Dee Stakes by four lengths, compared with the six managed by Ruler Of The World in Thursday's MBNA Chester Vase, Magician was achieving more on pure form as he defeated a higher-rated runner-up in Contributer.

    Both are by Galileo but 13-8 favourite Magician, a winner of one of his four juvenile starts, is out of a Listed-class sprinter in Absolutelyfabulous and Ryan Moore used his inherited speed to disappear into the distance in the final furlong.

    Trainer Aidan O'Brien was securing a fourth running of the Group Three and two in a row following subsequent Derby third Astrology last year.

    The team's challenge against hot favourite Dawn Approach will not be finalised until Battle Of Marengo has appeared in Sunday's Derrinstown and probably Mars and/or Indian Chief in the Dante.

    Kevin Buckley, Coolmore's UK representative, was asked about the Chester winners and said: "I suppose, to be fair, we were equally impressed with both horses.

    "Ryan did have quite a smile on his face today. He said he got a good feel from him and was really impressed when he pushed the button.

    "Ruler Of The World is destined for mile-and-a-half races but this horse handles a mile and a quarter very well and has a bit of speed in his pedigree."

    Magician is 20-1 with Coral, 14s with Ladbrokes, for Epsom and Buckley said later: "It's all about the Derby, it's the race the whole team want to win."

    Ryan Moore

    Moore was impressed and said: "He's a very nice horse. He felt relaxed going round there and when you asked he really quickened very well.

    "He's got plenty of pace. They are different types (Ruler Of The World and Magician), but both are good ones."

    Adding a little context was Ed Dunlop, whose Contributer arrived on the back of a victory at Newbury and was unable to make enough impact with jockey Graham Lee attempting to squeeze up the inside of the field.

    "Graham blames himself for getting behind in a slowly-run race. The winner could be very good but it was an unsatisfactory race," said Dunlop.

    "The vibes we got were that today's winner was better than yesterday's and I suppose we come away from today not having learnt very much."

    Owner Dr Marwan Koukash achieved one of his two racing ambitions for the second time this week by winning the Chester Cup, and it will be up to Luca Cumani and Mount Athos to attempt to swing the other.

    Both trainer and owner are hell-bent on a victory in the Emirates Melbourne Cup, and Cumani must now preserve a realistic handicap rating after Mount Athos (13-8) savaged his opponents in the Boodles Diamond Ormonde Stakes.

    With O'Brien's 6-5 favourite Memphis Tennessee never looking settled on the tight Roodee, Mount Athos was alone in front and cruised home by nine lengths, with Jamie Spencer searching for virgin ground along the stands rail in the home straight.


     

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    Magician impresses in Dee Stakes

    Fri 10th May 2013, 14:46

    Ryan Moore and Aidan O'Brien
    Ryan Moore and Aidan O'Brien
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Magician ran out an easy winner at Chester to land back-to-back renewals of the BetVictor.com Dee Stakes for Aidan O'Brien.

    In what was almost an action replay of yesterday's Chester Vase victory, Ryan Moore settled his colt in a close second before quickening on the home turn to put the race to bed in a matter of strides.

    Moore brought Magician towards the stands' side rail in the straight in search of the better ground and the Galileo colt stretched clear in good style to earn a quote of 16/1 from 40s for the Investec Derby from Sky Bet.

    The 13/8 favourite pulled four lengths clear of Contributer who cut through the field from last place to give chase.

    He never looked capable of matching the winner although he did readily account for the remainder.

    O'Brien's charge was a disappointing last in a Group Three on his final start of 2012 but Moore was impressed with the manner of his victory on his seasonal reappearance.

    "He's a very nice horse. He felt relaxed going round there and when you asked he really quickened very well. He's got plenty of pace. They are different types (Ruler Of The World and Magician), but both are good ones."


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    O'Brien hoping ground stays decent for Battle

    Fri 10th May 2013, 12:46

    Battle Of Marengo
    Battle Of Marengo
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Jockey Joseph O'Brien is hoping the rain stays away from Leopardstown to allow Battle Of Marengo to show his full potential in the Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial on Sunday.

    The Galileo colt moved to the top of Ballydoyle's Derby pecking order with a most impressive performance in the Ballysax Stakes on his seasonal return.

    He now follows a tried-and-tested route by aiming to follow up in the Derrinstown, a race Aidan O'Brien has won nine times, including with subsequent Epsom Derby heroes Galileo (2001) and High Chaparral (2002).

    Battle Of Marengo is currently second in the Epsom betting, behind Jim Bolger's 2000 Guineas victor Dawn Approach, and although he has shown an ability to handle testing ground, O'Brien jnr feels Ballydoyle's inmate will be even more potent on a sound surface.

    He said: "I'd be hoping the rain stays away as, although he has run very well on heavy ground, he is definitely a better horse on better ground.

    "One of his best performances was when he won in Leopardstown last year on good ground. The saddle slipped that day and he still broke the track record.

    "I'd love to get him on a bit of nicer ground again and, hopefully, he'll get that on Sunday. He was good in the Ballysax, it was his first run of the year and hopefully he'll have come on for that.

    "This isn't the be all and end all, it's his second run, and hopefully he'll come on again. I think it looks a better Derrinstown than it has for the last couple of seasons - hopefully we get some nice ground."

    Just five runners go to post and the chief opponent to Battle Of Marengo appears to be the Bolger-trained Loch Garman.

    The son of Teofilo did not make his debut until winning at Navan last October, the form of which has worked out well, and he was turned out just a week later to land the Group One Criterium International at Saint-Cloud.

    While he makes his reappearance over a mile and a quarter, Bolger is considering dropping his charge in trip after this weekend for a tilt at the Irish 2,000 Guineas.

    Bolger said: "All is good with him and he doesn't mind about the ground. He's a horse with plenty of toe and he could come back (in trip) for the Irish 2,000 Guineas. He's in the Irish Derby later on."

    Andrew Oliver expects First Cornerstone to benefit from his first outing since he finished fourth to the O'Brien-trained Kingsbarns in the Racing Post Trophy at Doncaster last October.

    "He has developed physically and we are very happy with him," the County Tyrone trainer told At The Races.

    "We had a hold-up with our gallops earlier in the year so all of my horses were quite behind and are taking a run anyway. Having said that I'm fairly happy with his preparation but I expect him to come on for the run.

    "We hope he is well equipped with both speed and stamina to deal with stepping up in trip and being able to travel well and quicken."

    The quintet is completed by Dont Bother Me, who makes a swift return for Niall Moran having finished eighth in the 2000 Guineas, and John Oxx's Dundalk maiden winner Little White Cloud.

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    Mars has Dante option

    Fri 10th May 2013, 12:44

    Mars
    Mars
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    The well-regarded Mars is one of four Aidan O'Brien runners still in contention for next week's Betfred Dante Stakes at York.

    Sent off at long odds-on when readily winning a Dundalk maiden on his sole start at two, he was asked to contest the QIPCO 2000 Guineas on his next outing and was far from disgraced in the circumstances.

    He could attempt to build on that over a more suitable trip on the Knavesmire although O'Brien does have other options.

    Battle Of Marengo still holds an entry but has been declared to run at Leopardstown on Sunday leaving Indian Chief and Festive Cheer as other possible runners.

    Sir Michael Stoute is set to give a seasonal reappearance to Telescope, a general second favourite for the Investec Derby, who has been the subject of positive reports this spring.

    Greatwood is another entry set to be in action this weekend but the progressive Windhoek could be seen at York along with stablemate Maputo and Godolphin's Secret Number.

    The entries are completed by Contributer, Dashing Star, Ghurair, Libertarian and Jim Bolger's pair Loch Garman and Trading Leather.


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    Ground eases for Derby Trial

     By Gary CarsonFri 10th May 2013, 11:44

    Battle Of Marengo runs at Leopardstown
    Battle Of Marengo runs at Leopardstown
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    The ground has eased at Leopardstown ahead of Sunday's meeting which is set to feature the Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial.

    The going had been firm this week but after 4mm of rain overnight the description is now good to yielding, yielding in places.

    The Derby Trial is set to feature a clash between Ballysax winner Battle Of Marengo and unbeaten Group 1 Criterium winner Loch Garman.

    There is also the 1,000 Guineas Trial on the card and the Group 3 Amethyst Stakes.

    It's good at Punchestown for the jumps card tomorrow.

    Killarney race on Sunday and the going there is now soft, yielding in places.

    The forecast is for a mainly dry day today with showers tonight, tomorrow and on Sunday.

    There are now no good to firms places at Downpatrick for this evening's card with the description now good all around following overnight rain.



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    Tennessee bidding for Chester repeat

    Fri 10th May 2013, 09:44

    Memphis Tennessee winning last year
    Memphis Tennessee winning last year
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Memphis Tennessee bids to become the first horse since St Expedit in 2001 and 2002 to land back-to-back victories in the Boodles Diamond Ormonde Stakes when he lines up at Chester on Friday.

    The Aidan O'Brien-trained five-year-old duly justified favouritism 12 months ago only to disappoint on his only start last season, when he was tailed off in the Hardwicke Stakes at Royal Ascot.

    His main stumbling block is expected to be Mount Athos, who has his first run back in Britain since taking in the Melbourne Cup and Japan Cup at the end of last year.

    His trainer Luca Cumani is praying the ground stays on the quick side for the Dr Marwan Koukash-owned six-year-old.

    "Mount Athos is in very good form. I just hope the rain stays away because he likes a fast surface," said Cumani. "If he gets a fast surface I'm sure he will run a good race."

    Communicator has finished first and second in two starts on the Roodee and his trainer Andrew Balding believes that is an advantage as the five-year-old tries his hand in Group Three company.

    "He likes the track and has run very well there twice in the past," said the Kingsclere handler. "He's got a fair bit to find to trouble the two principals (Memphis Tennessee and Mount Athos), but he's in good form and because he likes the track he does have place prospects at least."

    Mad Moose had refused to race on his last two starts over fences but he was a revelation on his belated Flat debut at Doncaster.

    Jumping kindly out of the stalls the nine-year-old, trained by Nigel Twiston-Davies, had far too much toe for his younger rivals as he sprang a 28-1 surprise in a mile-and-a-half maiden.

    "He was due a performance as he hadn't started in his last two runs so we were getting a bit frustrated with him," said Nick Bradley bloodstock manager to owners Middleham Park Racing.

    "Nigel was sure he would jump out of the stalls and he did. Nigel said there was no horse at home that could go with him, but we never expected him to win.

    "We put him in this in the hope that it would be a small field, which it is. We're not sure how we will ride him, but it will certainly be a sight - Mad Moose running around Chester. We will try to come up with a plan to nick a bit of prize money.

    "We've put Danny (Tudhope) on board, it's the first time he's ridden for Nigel as his son Willy was unavailable. Danny's a good jockey and he will think about the ride, about trying to win some prize money and getting a few off the bridle turning in."

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    Ruler Dominates Chester Vase

    Thu 9th May 2013, 15:22

    Ryan Moore and Aidan O'Brien
    Ryan Moore and Aidan O'Brien
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Ruler Of The World ran out a facile winner to secure the MBNA Chester Vase for Aidan O'Brien for the fourth time in seven years.

    The Curragh maiden winner was fitted with cheekpieces for this second racecourse outing as he stepped up to Group Three company but showed no unwelcome traits en route to a straightforward success.

    Settled in a close second by Ryan Moore, he tracked leader Mister Impatience until the quartet started turning for home when the Galileo colt was asked to go and win his race.

    He settled the issue in a matter of strides with a six length winning margin scant reflection of his superiority.

    Mister Impatience held on for second with Havana Beat and Feel Like Dancing occupying the last two places throughout the 12 furlong contest.

    The winner was cut to 10/1 from 20s by Sky Bet to follow up in the Investec Derby at Epsom next month.

    Moore said: "He did it nicely. The race worked out well for him as he got a nice lead. He's still a bit green running round here, but once I grabbed hold of him he lengthened really well. He'll learn a lot. Going round here will have done him good."


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    Nevis Leads Lingfield Contenders

    Thu 9th May 2013, 12:47

    Nevis
    Nevis
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Aidan O'Brien gives Nevis the chance to prove his Classic credentials when the colt makes his seasonal reappearance in the Betfred Derby Trial at Lingfield on Saturday.

    Nevis holds a host of big-race entries, including the Tattersalls Irish 2,000 Guineas and the Investec Derby.

    However, he is on a retrieval mission after finishing sixth behind 2000 Guineas hero Dawn Approach in the Vincent O'Brien Stakes on his final start last term.

    He faces just four rivals headed by the Luca Cumani-trained Greatwood, who made a promising seasonal debut when short headed by Windhoek at Newmarket last month.

    Hughie Morrison's Another Cocktail and Paska Boy, trained by Jonathan Portman, are also in the mix while the other runner, the Mick Channon-trained Elidor, is the only one of the quintet not to hold an entry in the Derby.

    O'Brien will not be represented in the Betfred "The Bonus King" Oaks Trial as he withdrew Half Moon at the final declaration stage. She was the only filly taken out of the Listed contest, leaving a field of seven in the race.

    Ralph Beckett has used this test as a stepping stone for the Oaks itself in the past and will be hoping Secret Gesture can book her place in the fillies' Classic at Epsom on May 31.

    All the Trial entrants are in the Oaks except for the Marco Botti-trained Whippy Cream. The rest who are seeking their ticket to Classic stardom are Alta Lilea, Enaitch, Heroine Required, Miss You Too and Northern Star.


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    Light Leads them merry dance

     By Gary CarsonTue 7th May 2013, 19:52

    Leading Light  and Joseph O'Brien
    Leading Light and Joseph O'Brien 
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Leading Light produced a smart front-running performance to claim the conditions race at Navan on his seasonal debut.

    Joseph O'Brien was keen to lead on the Montjeu colt and he asked him to stretch two furlongs out as he was tackled by Canary Row.

    9/4 favourite Dibayani had to wait for a gap in the straight but got his run two furlongs out. He tried to throw down a challenged over a furlong out as Canary Row cried enough.

    Leading Light had hit top gear, however, and pulled away in impressive style in the closing stages to post a seven-length success over the market leader.

    The winner had two starts as a juvenile, winning the second of those at Tipperary.

    “He's very lazy and he was off the bridle when he won his maiden at Tipperary,” said Joseph O'Brien afterwards.

    “I wanted to get him to the front and when you ask him he gives it to you. I think he'll stay a mile-and-a-half well.”

    It was a double on the card for Aidan and Joseph O'Brien following the earlier maiden victory of Just Pretending.

    (Additional reporting by Alan Magee)


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    "Difficult" Pretending impresses

     By Gary CarsonTue 7th May 2013, 18:53

    Just Pretending
    Just Pretending 
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Just Pretending was friendless before the off in the Slane Fillies Maiden at Navan but ran out an impressive winner none-the-less.

    The Ballydoyle filly opened up at 11/10 on course but was returned 7/4 as they jumped in the mile contest.

    She tracked Cocktail Hour throughout before tackling the front-runner a furlong and a half out.

    The daughter of Giant's Causeway soon hit the lead and quickened clear inside the final furlong to post a four-and-a-half length victory.

    The winner had been a big eye-catcher at Dundalk last month when staying on late into third.

    “She's a very difficult mare. Seamie (Heffernan) rode her the last day and said to try her in a hood and it seems to have helped her,” said Joseph O'Brien afterwards.

    “He also said whatever you do don't hit her. She showed today that there is a bit of ability there and hopefully she can progress. She's a very well-bred filly.”

    The winner is a half-sister to the Grade 3 winner in the US called The Leopard, who cost $2,500,000 as a two-year-old.

    (Additional reporting by Alan Magee)




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    Seven Irish in French 2000

    Tue 7th May 2013, 16:06

    Festive Cheer in French 2000
    Festive Cheer in French 2000
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    There are seven Irish possibles among the 30 colts still in the reckoning for the French 2000 Guineas at Longchamp on Sunday.

    Jim Bolger and Aidan O'Brien are each responsible for three entries.

    Bolger has Leitir Mor, Loch Garman and Trading Leather engaged, while Ballydoyle trainer O'Brien has Festive Cheer, Gale Force Ten and Flying The Flag.

    The only other potential Irish challenger is Tommy Carmody's Fort Knox.

    Richard Hannon's Olympic Glory is the leading British challenger.

    The three-year-old won all but one of five starts as a juvenile and already has successful form across the Channel after claiming the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere at Longchamp's Arc meeting last October.

    Olympic Glory made a winning return to action in the Greenham Stakes at Newbury and will return to France aiming to complete a memorable week for the Hannon camp following the 1000 Guineas victory of Sky Lantern at Newmarket on Sunday.

    Hannon could also saddle Havana Gold, while there are plenty of other British-trained contenders.

    Charlie Hills has Ebn Arab in the mix following his comeback victory at Doncaster, while Marco Botti could send runaway Kempton scorer String Theory to France.

    Godolphin trainer Saeed bin Suroor has left in Tawhid, Brian Meehan could run Mujazif, and John Gosden has Bright Strike.

    Of the home contenders, Andre Fabre's Newmarket winner Intello and Freddie Head's Anodin are a two of the more interesting possible runners.


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                WEBSITE STATS UPDATE

     

     



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    Marengo heads O'Brien six in Derrinstown

    Tue 7th May 2013, 14:28

    Battle Of Marengo
    Battle Of Marengo
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Battle Of Marengo is the star name among six Aidan O'Brien-trained entries for the Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial at Leopardstown on Sunday.

    The master of Ballydoyle has saddled nine previous winners of this 10-furlong Group Two, including subsequent Epsom Derby heroes Galileo (2001) and High Chaparral (2002).

    Battle Of Marengo is following a tried-and-tested route after he won the Ballysax Stakes on his three-year-old debut.

    He is the general second favourite for Epsom's premier Classic, behind 2000 Guineas hero Dawn Approach, on June 1.

    O'Brien also has Indian Chief, Kingdom, League Of Nations, Magician and Nevis engaged in the Derrinstown at the confirmation stage.

    Dawn Approach's trainer, Jim Bolger, has a formidable pair in Loch Garman and Trading Leather.

    The entries are completed by First Cornerstone, Canary Row, Dont Bother Me and Little White Cloud from John Oxx's stable.

    The Group Three Derrinstown Stud 1,000 Guineas Trial has attracted 17 contenders, including the Dermot Weld-trained Rawaaq and Oxx's Harasiya.

    Fifteen horses are currently engaged for the Group Three Amethyst Stakes on the same card.

    David Wachman's Duntle is one of the more intriguing participants, along with Weld's Caponata and Ger Lyons' stable star Lily's Angel.



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    Ryan Moore revealed his delight at riding in the Kentucky Derby

    Last Updated: May 7, 2013 11:46am

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    Ryan Moore: Loved the Kentucky Derby

    Ryan Moore: Loved the Kentucky Derby

    Sky Bet

    Ryan Moore says riding in Saturday's Kentucky Derby "was the best day's racing I have ever experienced".

    He headed over to Churchill Downs to partner Lines Of Battle for Aidan O'Brien who finished seventh behind Orb.

    Writing in his exclusive Betfair column Moore said: "I can honestly say that the Kentucky Derby at the weekend was the best day's racing I have ever experienced; it was different class, on another level to what I have seen, or been involved in, anywhere else around the globe.

    "They say that the Melbourne Cup is the race that stops a nation, and it's obviously a very big deal in Australia, but this was something else I can assure you. No comparison at all."

    The race took place on a sloppy track after heavy rain in Louisville and Moore admitted it was a real challenge.

    "Riding at the meeting - and it was the first time I have ridden in the race - was a real eye-opener, I can tell you. And I loved it.

    "Talking of eye-openers, I must have broken my own personal record as I wore seven pairs of goggles in the Derby, with a couple of layers of clingfilm for extra protection thrown in on two pairs for good measure, and used them all.

    "In truth, it probably wasn't as bad as I would feared it would be, but it was still fairly horrific out there. But all credit to Lines Of Battle, as he ran a very brave race to finish seventh.

    "You obviously prepare horses for the kickback at home, but you just can't replicate those kind of conditions."

     

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    Ruler faces four in Vase

    Tue 7th May 2013, 11:37

    Ryan Moore rides Ruler Of The World
    Ryan Moore rides Ruler Of The World
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Aidan O'Brien's Curragh maiden scorer Ruler Of The World faces four opponents in the MBNA Chester Vase on Thursday.

    The Ballydoyle handler has saddled three of the last six Chester Vase winners in Soldier Of Fortune (2007), Golden Sword (2009) and Treasure Beach (2011).

    This son of Galileo is a half-brother to multiple Group One winner Duke Of Marmalade and looked the part when making a winning debut in early April.

    He now tests his Derby claims in this mile-and-a-half Group Three, with Ryan Moore taking the ride.

    The highest-rated horse in the line-up is the Andrew Balding-trained Havana Beat, fourth in a valuable sales race at Newmarket three weeks ago.

    Champion trainer John Gosden is represented by Newbury winner Feel Like Dancing, while Richard Fahey, who struck gold 12 months ago with Mickdaam, runs Gabrial's Kaka.

    The small field is completed by Mark Johnston's Mister Impatience.

     

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                       Timeform Ballydoyle Global Rankings European Division Update 07/05/13 10 Ballydoyle Horses in the rankings


     




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    Frankie Dettori and Camelot

    Frankie Dettori aboard Camelot talks to Aidan O'Brien before the 2012 Arc

     PICTURE: Edward Whitaker (racingpost.com/photos)

    Frankie Dettori riding work at Ballydoyle

    FRANKIE DETTORI was on Monday part of Aidan O'Brien's work-riding team as the world's most famous jockey continued preparations for his May 20 comeback.

     


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                                     He's Back

     

     




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    No problems for Camelot on his return

     By Donal MurphyMon 6th May 2013, 15:48

    Camelot is driven out by Joseph O'Brien
    Camelot is driven out by Joseph O'Brien
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Four time Group 1 winner Camelot made a winning return to action at the Curragh this afternoon as he took the Group 3 High Chaparral EBF Mooresbridge Stakes for Aidan and Joseph O'Brien.

    The four-year-old son of Montjeu won the 2000 Guineas at Newmarket and the Derby at Epsom last season but failed to complete the Triple Crown as he finished second in the final leg, the St Leger at Doncaster in September.

    He rounded off his three-year-old campaign by finishing a disappointing seventh in the Prix De L'arc De Triomphe but he lost shoes during that race and was found to be suffering from colic afterwards.

    Sent off the 1/3 favourite this afternoon he was settled in rear off the pace but he closed into fourth entering the straight.

    He was ridden a furlong and a half from home, making headway to lead a furlong out and he was pushed out from there to score by a length and three parts.

    His front running stablemate Triumphant (20/1) kept on well to just beat Parish Hall(5/2) for the runner-up spot by a head.

    Aidan O’Brien said after the success; "I'm delighted with that. He had big colic surgery during the winter and you never really know what way they will back from that.

    "He is all class and he has great speed. I know he got a mile and a half last year but he has a lot of speed.

    "Joseph said that he was seventy per cent fit today and the Tattersalls Gold Cup remains the plan.

    "It was major open surgery that he had and after it he wasn’t with us for months. He was in Coolmore and I was surprised the shape he came back to us in.

    "That type of surgery is massive and we are lucky to have him back.”

    Camelot remains unchanged at 14/1 with Stan James for the Prix De L'Arc in October.

    Additional reporting by Gary Carson



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    Michaelmas lands the odds in opener

     By Gary CarsonMon 6th May 2013, 14:37

    Michaelmas & Joseph O'Brien on their way to victory
    Michaelmas & Joseph O'Brien on their way to victory
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Michaelmas landed the odds in the opener at the Curragh but had to knuckle down the get the job done.

    The Elusive Quality colt was sent off 2/9 favourite following a highly promising debut effort at Leopardstown last month.

    Joseph O'Brien had the hotpot to the fore throughout and asked him to go about his business over a furlong from home.

    He kept on inside the final furlong to land the spoils, recording a three-parts victory over Candy Apples, who stayed on late for second.

    “He did it nicely. He was still green in front,” said Aidan O'Brien afterwards.

    “There is a winners race in Naas (15th May) he might go for. He was lazy and idling away and that's why he let him gallop along.

    “I thought he won well enough.”

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    Kingsbarns unlikely to make Derby

     By Gary CarsonMon 6th May 2013, 14:59

    Kingsbarns
    Kingsbarns
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Aidan O'Brien revealed today that he thinks it's unlikely that Kingsbarns will make the Derby at Epsom on June 1st.

    The Racing Post Trophy winner had been winter favourite for the classic but met with a setback earlier in the year which forced him to miss the 2,000 Guineas.

    O'Brien said today that he wouldn't be fit for a trial race and that it might not be fair on the horse to push him to make the Derby line-up.

    "Were struggling and I don't think he'll be fit for Leopardstown or Chester. He's grand and sound now but he's done so little for so long that he's like a sprinter.

    "To be fair on the horse it's probably not fair (going for the Derby). We'll keep going and see but we're probably not going to have him there.

    "For those races you have to have everything smooth. He's 20kg up on his racing weight but is sound and perfect. It's a pity but we'll wait and see."



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    Moth runs a cracker 3rd in the Guineas she needs further looks so classy i think we have seen the Oaks winner in her.


    Best horse was 3rd did you see how she flew by hot snap left her for

    dead cards played up front too late for Moth


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    Orb wins Kentucky Derby with Lines in 7th

    Sun 5th May 2013, 00:21

    Lines Of Battle pictured on his way to victory at Dundalk last year
    Lines Of Battle pictured on his way to victory at Dundalk last year
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Co-favourite Orb gave trainer Shug McGaughey his first success in the Kentucky Derby at a muddy Churchill Downs on Saturday night.

    Ridden by Dubai World Cup-winning jockey Joel Rosario, Orb made light of the sloppy track at Churchill Downs to win the first leg of the American Triple Crown in style.

    He powered clear to beat Golden Soul with fellow market leader Revolutionary back in third after heavy rain in Louisville turned the Run for the Roses into a real slog.

    Aidan O'Brien's Lines Of Battle kept on well to finish seventh without ever landing a telling blow.







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    No fuss for swift Coach at Tipp

    Thu 2nd May 2013, 18:22

    Coach House has his rivals well beaten at Tipperary
    Coach House has his rivals well beaten at Tipperary
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    The Irish Stallion Farms European Breeders Fund Maiden looked Coach House's for the taking and the Ballydoyle juvenile certainly didn't fluff his lines in the Tipperary opener.

    Anyone that invested at 2/5 (from 4/7) never really had any cause for concern as the Curragh runner-up jumped out with a catch me if you can approach against five opponents having their first tastes of racecourse action.

    Coach House stretched on under Joseph O'Brien from over a furlong out to beat his only serious market-rival, Heart Focus (a 7/2 shot, 9s bar the two) by six and a half lengths.

    Joseph O'Brien said: "He improved plenty and he's a lovely horse with plenty of pace. He'll get six furlongs and he's got a really good attitude."

    Coach House is a Group 1 Keeneland Phoenix Stakes entrant for the Curragh in August. He is also in at the Curragh next Monday as well as races cross-channel at Doncaster and Redcar in the autumn. (TW & EM)

     


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    Confidence behind Moth

    Thu 2nd May 2013, 22:20

    Moth
    Moth
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Joseph O'Brien is hoping Moth can justify being supplemented for the QIPCO 1000 Guineas at Newmarket on Sunday.

    Connections of the Aidan O'Brien-trained filly paid £30,000 to add her to the field at the confirmation stage on the strength of the promise she showed when easily winning a Curragh maiden four weeks ago.

    "She's a lovely filly. I really fancied her first time out last year but she only finished fifth and I was terribly disappointed," the jockey told At The Races.

    "She came back and ran over six in a maiden and I got to the front too soon and she got a bit tired and was nailed by horses late on.

    "She went to the Curragh and she showed on the track for the first time what she had been showing at home and she goes there with a live chance in an open-enough Guineas.

    "Her pedigree suggests she will stay much further, at least a mile and a half. To do that over seven was very special and we're hoping she will progress with racing."

    The jockey's father also has Snow Queen and Magical Dream left in the race, which he will be bidding to win for a third time, although the latter is not a certain runner.

    "Snow Queen has a lot of ability and might be a bit better on a straight track. On her run this year she might struggle, but I wouldn't be surprised if she ran a big race," said O'Brien jnr.

    "I wouldn't be 100% sure Magical Dream would run.


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    Lines draws 11 in 'run for the roses'

    Thu 2nd May 2013, 10:07

    Lines Of Battle
    Lines Of Battle
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Aidan O'Brien's Lines Of Battle will race from stall 11 in the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs on Saturday night.

    The colt, who enjoyed a solid juvenile campaign, booked his ticket to the 'run for the roses' with victory in the UAE Derby at Meydan on his reappearance.

    A son of War Front, he arrived on Wednesday morning and will be ridden by Ryan Moore.

    O'Brien's assistant TJ Comerford said: "Aidan tries to have a go every year. Every horse we've brought here has won the same race in Dubai. Aidan would like to win it because it's a major race, one of the biggest races."

    Of the leading contenders, Todd Pletcher's Wood Memorial winner Verrazano was drawn in gate 14, with Shug McGaughey's Florida Derby victor Orb in 16.

    Orb has been installed as favourite on the local morning line, and McGaughey said on www.bloodhorse.com: "Well, I'm fine with that. I heard a little rumour this morning that Mike (Battaglia, oddsmaker) was a little confused on who it was, but I think that just because of the way (Orb's) doing here.

    "Verrazano, as we all know, is a very talented horse, and we'll see what the public does on Saturday, but I think he will probably still be the favourite.

    "I think from where he is (in 16), we'll just kind of hold our position, maybe try to creep in a little bit going around the first turn, and then Joel (Rosario) can kind of watch what's going on down on the inside of him, and see what Johnny (Velazquez) is doing on Verazzano."



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    Freewheel toughs it out on debut

     By Alan MageeWed 1st May 2013, 18:48

    Joseph O'Brien doubled up on Freewheel
    Joseph O'Brien doubled up on Freewheel
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Aidan and Joseph O’Brien completed a quick double as Freewheel showed a very likeable attitude when successful on his debut in the nine-furlong maiden at Tipperary.

    The Galileo colt was well-supported on track from 7/4 into 11/8 favourite but punters were not on good terms with themselves as Joseph was hard at work turning into the straight with Pat Smullen appearing to have plenty in hand on fellow newcomer Resolute Response.

    However the latter didn’t quite live up to his name, and found little under pressure asFreewheel stayed on well inside the final furlong to beat Teoirim (3/1) by two and a half lengths.

    Resolute Response (7/4) was just denied by a nose for the runner-up spot.

    Aidan O’Brien said, “He won nicely. Joseph said he could go further and he was a bit green. Hopefully he can progress and he’s a grand big horse. I was at the furlong pole and he seemed to win going away but the second was only rated 76.”

    The Ballydoyle team were also on the mark in the previous seven-furlong handicap with Line Drummer.

    Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes




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    Drummer impresses on return to Tipp

     By Alan MageeWed 1st May 2013, 18:21

    Line Drummer strides clear for Joseph O'Brien
    Line Drummer strides clear for Joseph O'Brien
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Line Drummer, off the course over eight months since making all to take a maiden over this course and distance, followed up under contrasting tactics in the seven-furlong handicap.

    Joseph O’Brien elected to settle the son of Galileo off the pace set by 5/2 favourite Caesaria before getting a lovely run up the inner entering the straight.

    The easy-to-back 6/1 chance quickly made up ground to lead just over a furlong out, and stretched right away to beat the “jolly” by five and a half lengths.

    Janna’s Jingle (12/1) kept on onepaced to finish another neck away in third.

    Winning trainer Aidan O’Brien said, “I’m delighted with that. He’s a bit keen at home but shows lots of speed and we’ve been trying to relax him.

    “Even though he’s by Galileo he has lots of speed and travelled well today. He looks like he’s better than a handicapper, and Joseph said he should step up to a mile.”

    The Ballydoyle maestro also indicated riding arrangements for his powerful team in the Qipco-sponsored 1000 and 2000 Guineas at Newmarket this weekend.

    Joseph O’Brien will be on Cristoforo Colombo in the 2000 Guineas, with Seamie Heffernan riding Mars and Colm O’Donoghue on George Vancouver in Saturday's classic.

    Meanwhile on Sunday, Joseph will ride impressive Curragh maiden winner Moth in the 1000, with Ryan Moore making a swift return from the Kentucky Derby, where he rides O’Brien’s Lines Of Battle, to take the mount on Snow Queen.

    Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes


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    Camelot in line for Curragh return

    Wed 1st May 2013, 14:27

    Camelot is the clear winner of the Investec Derby at Epsom last June
    Camelot is the clear winner of the Investec Derby at Epsom last June
    (Healy Racing Photos)
    Camelot will face a maximum of seven rivals should he make his highly-anticipated return to action in the High Chaparral EBF Mooresbridge Stakes at the Curragh on Monday.

    Aidan O'Brien's colt enjoyed a superb Classic campaign, winning the 2000 Guineas at Newmarket, both the English and Irish Derbies and only narrowly missed out on Triple Crown glory when runner-up in the St Leger.

    The son of Montjeu was found to be suffering from colic just days after his disappointing showing in the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe at Longchamp, but is set to return as a four-year-old in this Group 3 test.

    O'Brien also has El Salvador, Ernest Hemingway and Triumphant in the ten-furlong event.

    Seemingly the biggest threat to Camelot is the Jim Bolger-trained Parish Hall.

    Winner of the 2011 Dewhurst Stakes, the Teofilo colt was sidelined for well over a year by injury, but made a winning return in the Listed Alleged Stakes over this course and distance last month.

    Bolger could be double-handed, with Light Heavy also in the mix.

    The field is completed by Ken Condon's Macbeth and Negotiate from Joanna Morgan's stable.

    On an intriguing eight-race card, the Listed Power EBF Tetrarch Stakes has attracted 16 entries, including O'Brien's Forester and Eddie Lynam's classy filly Viztoria.

    Viztoria also features among 21 fillies engaged in the Canford Cliffs EBF Athasi Stakes, with the Ger Lyons-trained Lily's Angel another major contender for the Group 3 prize.



     

     

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