St Nicholas Abbey update - The surgeons at Fethard Equine Hospital couldn't be happier with St Nicholas Abbey’s progress to date

Recently fitted with a lighter and less restrictive cast, he is more mobile and is putting more confident weight on the injured leg

St Nicholas Abbey’s appetite is good and he continues to gain weight. His blood work remains stable and his medication has been much reduced



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Leading Light among four Aidan O'Brien horses for Arc

Updated: Monday, 30 Sep 2013 10:58 | 


Leading Light (r) won the St Leger in Doncaster
Leading Light (r) won the St Leger in Doncaster

Trainer Aidan O'Brien has confirmed Ladbrokes St Leger hero Leading Light will be supplemented for Sunday's Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe at Longchamp.

The Montjeu colt has displayed admirable versatility so far this year, winning twice over a mile and a quarter before stepping up to two miles to take the Queen's Vase at Royal Ascot.

He came back to a mile and three-quarters to claim Classic glory at Doncaster earlier this month and will now pit his wits against the world's top mile-and-a-half performers in France.

Epsom Derby hero Ruler Of The World, Camelot and Kingsbarns are the other potential Ballydoyle representatives in the Arc.

"I think we're going to supplement the Leger horse and then obviously we'll get closer to the weekend (before knowing) about ground" - Aidan O'Brien

O'Brien told At The Races: "The four (Arc) horses are Ruler Of The World, Leading Light, Camelot and Kingsbarns.

"I think we're going to supplement the Leger horse and then obviously we'll get closer to the weekend (before knowing) about ground (conditions) because Camelot would only run if it was good or better.

"He (Leading Light) obviously hasn't done a lot (since Doncaster) - it's not that long ago - but everything he's done we've been happy with."

Roger Charlton's Al Kazeem also remains on target for Europe's premier middle-distance prize after pleasing in a workout with Prix de l'Opera-bound stable companion Thistle Bird over the weekend.

"They both worked well on Saturday morning over eight furlongs on our summer gallops, which are in fantastic condition," the Beckhampton trainer told his website, www.rogercharlton.com.

"Although Al Kazeem has had some tough races and on ground faster than he would have preferred, from what I can see he still retains his enthusiasm and his speed figures compared well on Saturday morning with his work before both the Prince of Wales's Stakes and the Eclipse.

"The Arc will be his seventh race of the season but only his 15th race spread over four seasons.

"It is never an exact science to know whether a horse has gone over the top or about to produce another high-class performance but the vibes are good.

"There is no disputing that this year's race is going to be contested by the best horses in Europe and two very smart colts from Japan.

"His class has enabled him to win his Group One races over ten furlongs but I also think he is capable of excelling over twelve furlongs as he did in the Jockey Club Stakes.

"We will need all the assistance we can get in Europe's most exciting race but some ease in the ground and going right handed will help him."


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Leading Light given Arc go-ahead

  • Last Updated: September 30 2013, 10:09 BST

Trainer Aidan O'Brien has confirmed Ladbrokes St Leger hero Leading Light will be supplemented for Sunday's Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe at Longchamp.

Leading Light: Will be supplemented for the Arc

Leading Light: Will be supplemented for the Arc



The Montjeu colt has displayed admirable versatility so far this year, winning twice over a mile and a quarter before stepping up to two miles to take the Queen's Vase at Royal Ascot.

He came back to a mile and three-quarters to claim Classic glory at Doncaster earlier this month and will now pit his wits against the world's top mile-and-a-half performers in France.

Epsom Derby hero Ruler Of The World, Camelot and Kingsbarns are the other potential Ballydoyle representatives in the Arc.

O'Brien told At The Races: "The four (Arc) horses are Ruler Of The World, Leading Light, Camelot and Kingsbarns.

"I think we're going to supplement the Leger horse and then obviously we'll get closer to the weekend (before knowing) about ground (conditions) because Camelot would only run if it was good or better.

"He (Leading Light) obviously hasn't done a lot (since Doncaster) - it's not that long ago - but everything he's done we've been happy with."




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Say touches down at Keeneland:

Say, a close third in the Matron Stakes, arrived at Keeneland late Saturday night and took up residence in the quarantine barn for her expected start in Saturday's $400,000 Grade 1 First Lady Stakes at the track.


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Camelot Ruler of the World Kingsbarns & Leading Light will run in

ARC Camelot will only run if ground is good or better


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Joseph is 2 winners away from beating Michael Kinnane's record 

of 114 winners in a season which is the Irish all time record



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Storm gets his revenge on Missunited

 By Donal MurphySun 29th Sep 2013, 17:50

Eye Of The Storm pictured winning at Listowel on his last start
Eye Of The Storm pictured winning at Listowel on his last start
(Healy Racing Photos)
Eye Of The Storm got his revenge onMissunited as he took the last at the Curragh this afternoon, the Listed Loughbrown Stakes, providing Aidan and Joseph O’Brien with a double on the card.

The three-year-old son of Galileo finished second to Missunited in the Listed Oyster Stakes over a mile and a half at Galway earlier this month, but he gained revenge today over the longer trip of two miles.

He had since won the Listed Listowel Stakes, and he was sent off the 8/13 favourite (opened on-course at 9/10) to follow up here.< Missunited was sent off the 7/2 second favourite, and the Mick Winters trained mare attempted to make all under Seamie Heffernan, with the eventual winner settling towards the rear in sixth.

As they entered the straight Missunited stayed on the rail, while her rivals drifted wide, with Joseph O’Brien getting serious aboard the winner over two furlongs out.

The chestnut victor responded well to pressure, and he got on terms at the furlong pole, keeping on best from there to just edge ahead close home, winning by three parts of a length at the line.< Missunited took second, while Leah Claire ran a cracker, finishing just a length back in third under Danny Grant for Willie McCreeryat 20/1.

Aidan O'Brien said afterwards: "We weren’t sure about the two miles but he got it well. He travelled well and I don’t think he needs to go that far.

"I’d say he is finished for the year now and he could make up into a cup horse next year.

"I think he got a kick as a foal which resulted in him losing an eye."

Additional reporting by Alan Magee



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Geoffrey makes it two from two in Beresford

 By Donal MurphySun 29th Sep 2013, 16:45

Geoffrey Chaucer and Joseph O'Brien on their way to victory, with Altruistic back in third
Geoffrey Chaucer and Joseph O'Brien on their way to victory, with Altruistic back in third
(Healy Racing Photos)
Geoffrey Chaucer made it two from two as he took the feature race at the Curragh this afternoon, the Group 2 Juddmonte Beresford Stakes, for Aidan and Joseph O’Brien.

The son of Montjeu won his maiden at Leopardstown in July, beating Tarfasha(finished third in the Blenheim Stakes earlier) by a neck, and he was sent off the 4/7 favourite to follow up this afternoon.

Settled in fourth, the bay colt was pushed along two furlongs out, and he responded well to pressure, hitting the front around a furlong from home, keeping on well from there to score by a length and a quarter.

Oklahoma City made it a one, two for Aidan O’Brien, as he took second under Seamie Heffernan at 5/1, while Altruistic was three parts of a length back in third under trainer/jockey Johnny Murtagh.

Exogenesis was taken out of the contest this morning after been sold.

Aidan O’Brien said afterwards: "He didn’t learn much in front the last day. We were hoping there would be more pace on today, which there was, and he was still a bit green when hit the front.

"If everything goes to plan he will go to Doncaster for the Racing Post Trophy."

O’Brien went on the talk about the runner-up, saying: "I knew he was crying out to go further and on pedigree there is plenty of stamina on the dam’s side.

"He is in the sales race at Newmarket and it is quite possible he could go there." <Geoffrey Chaucer is now a 16/1 for the Epsom Derby with Paddy Power, Boylesports and Ladbrokes.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee



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LEADING LIGHT 

will run in the Arc next Sunday in Paris 100,000 paid for leger winner to be supplemented.



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The red-hot favourite Geoffrey Chaucer ran out a convincing winner of the Juddmonte Beresford Stakes at the Curragh.


 Geoffrey Chaucer: Beresford winner


Geoffrey Chaucer: Beresford winner


The 4/7 favourite stuck to his task well despite carrying his head awkwardly and knuckled down to record a one and a quarter length victory from stablemate Oklahoma City.The son of Montjeu was always travelling sweetly under Joseph O'Brien and took up the running from the long-time leader All Set To Go just over a furlong from home.

Geoffrey Chaucer's success means Aidan O'Brien has now trained the winner of the Beresford Stakes on 13 separate occasions, including the 2009 winner St Nicholas Abbey.

The trainer said: "He didn't learn much the first day and we were hoping there'd be more pace today, which there was.

"He learned nothing in front the first day, but I'd say he learned plenty today and he was still a bit green when he hit the front.

"If everything goes to plan, he'll go to Doncaster for the Racing Post Trophy (October 26)."

O'Brien was also pleased with the effort of the runner-up, adding: "I knew he was crying out to go further. In his pedigree there is plenty of stamina on the dam's side. He's in the sales race at Newmarket (£500,000 Tattersalls Millions 2YO Trophy, October 5) and that's a possibility."

His jockey was pleased with the way in which he ran and thought that he would come on again for the run.

"We've gone a nice clip there and he's shown that he's a nice horse - I think he'll go on from that," said Joseph O'Brien.

"There were only three runners on his first start and I had to make the running which wasn't ideal. We came here to learn and he's relaxed early which has helped. We hoped he'd learn a bit from this and I think he has.

"It rode like a good renewal of the race. I'd imagine he's up there with the best two-year-olds that we have and a race like the Racing Post Trophy could suit him.

"He'll have no problem with a mile and hopefully he'll go on and progress. I think he'll be better at three as he's a big horse and very raw at the moment. He's one to look forward to."







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CHAUCER TAKES STEP UP LADDER
29 Sep 2013



Geoffrey Chaucer made it two wins from as many starts with a workmanlike victory in the Juddmonte Beresford Stakes at the Curragh in a one-two for the Aidan O'Brien team.

The Montjeu colt looked the part when narrowly making a winning debut at Leopardstown and was a heavily backed 4-7 favourite as he stepped up to Group Two level against four opponents.

All Set To Go made a bold bid from the front, but Geoffrey Chaucer and Joseph O'Brien mowed him down in the final furlong and asserted close home to score a shade cosily by a length and a quarter from running-on stablemate Oklahoma City.

The Ballydoyle trainer said: "He didn't learn much the first day and we were hoping there'd be more pace today, which there was. He learned nothing in front the first day, but I'd say he learned plenty today and he was still a bit green when he hit the front. If everything goes to plan, he'll go to Doncaster for the Racing Post Trophy (October 26)."

O'Brien was also pleased with the effort of the runner-up, adding: "I knew he was crying out to go further. In his pedigree there is plenty of stamina on the dam's side. He's in the sales race at Newmarket (£500,000 Tattersalls Millions 2YO Trophy, October 5) and that's a possibility."

The winning jockey said: "First time out there were three runners and I had to make the running, which wasn't ideal. We wanted to drop in and learn a bit today, relax him and finish out, and that's what he did. He's a nice horse and I think he has a big future."

Paul Deegan's Shining Emerald turned in a brilliant display to overcome odds-on favourite Guerre in the Listed Anglesey Lodge Equine Hospital Blenheim Stakes.

A 16-length winner on his third attempt in heavy ground at Listowel earlier this month, the juvenile was a 7-2 shot for his latest assignment, with Deegan admitting pre-race he was concerned about the quicker underfoot conditions.

Those worries proved unfounded, however, as Shining Emerald quickened up smartly from the rear to shoot past Guerre in the final furlong and score by a comfortable three lengths in the hands of Chris Hayes.

Deegan said: "I'm absolutely delighted with him. He quickened well and put it to bed well. He's smart. I was concerned about the ground, but it's nice he showed he can change gear and change gear very effectively on nice, good ground. He's exciting and he's not done with for the year yet. We might have to revise plans now. He could go to England."

Deegan and Hayes almost made it a double in the valuable Mongey Communications Joe McGrath Handicap, but their representative English Deer was denied by Tommy Stack's 10-1 shot Nero Emperor.

Second on his most recent appearance, Nero Emperor came from the back of the field under Wayne Lordan and got the verdict by a head to secure his first victory since his only previous win at Dundalk in November 2011. Tylery Wonder and Invincible Ridge were third and fourth respectively.




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Wrote - Churchill Downs 05.11.2011

Wrote: won the Grade 1 Breeders' Juvenile Turf for Aidan O'Brien

 PICTURE: Edward Whitaker (racingpost.com/photos) 

Wrote to stand at Northwest Stud

BREEDERS' CUP Juvenile Turf winner Wrote and multiple Graded stakes winner Duke Of Mischief will stand at Northwest Stud near Ocala in Florida for the 2014 breeding season.

A four-year-old son of High Chaparaal, Wrote won three races during his juvenile season for Aidan O'Brien which culminated with an impressive two and a quarter length victory at Churchill Downs in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf.

He ran four times at three, posting his best effort in the UAE Derby when finishing third behind Daddy Long Legs.

Wrote ran once at four, finishing last of eight runners in the Grade 2 Monmouth Stakes for Andrew Mitchell.

He is out of the Green Desert mare Desert Classic, the dam of four winners from four runners, who was bought for 875,000gns by Mount Brilliant Farm at last year's Tattersalls December sale.

The seven-year-old Duke Of Mischief netted $1,905,747 during his career, winning seven of his 30 starts.

The son of Graeme Hall's biggest success came in the Grade 2 Charles Town Classic, a race in which he beat high-class pair Game On Dude and Tizway.

Out of the winning Real Courage mare My Lady Amelia, Duke Of Mischief is a half-brother to Grade 3 winner Lord Robyn. My Lady Amelia is a half sister to Belgian Horse of the Year Yakousa.

Stud fees for the pair will be announced at a later date.


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Afonso overcomes lengthy absence in the last

 By Donal MurphyFri 27th Sep 2013, 21:41

Afonso De Sousa and Joseph O'Brien on their way to victory
Afonso De Sousa and Joseph O'Brien on their way to victory
(Healy Racing Photos)
Afonso De Sousa overcame a lengthy absence to take the last at Dundalk this evening, the Dundalk Stadium - Light Up Your Night Race, providing Aidan and Joseph O’Brien with a double on the card (earlier scored with Red Rocks Point).

The successful three-year-old son of Henrythenavigator won his maiden at Leopardstown on his third start in July of 2012, and he then finished third of five to Dundonnell in the Group 3 Acomb Stakes at York the following month.

Stepped up in trip to a mile and two for the first time, and having his first run since York, the bay colt was sent off a 2/1 chance having opened at 6/4 on-course.

Having raced mainly in second, he improved to lead entering the straight, and he kept on well under pressure to hold off the challenge of Dabadiyan (11/10 favourite), scoring by a length and a half at the line.

The runner-up was bidding for his fourth win in-a-row, but he couldn’t match the winner in the home straight, and he had to settle for second under Declan McDonogh for Mick Halford.

Joseph O'Brien said afterwards: "He is a lovely big horse. He was prepped to go to Dubai but he had a little setback and then he was ready in the middle part of the year but he had another setback.

"He is very genuine and he did another circuit as I couldn’t pull him up."

Additional reporting by Alan Magee


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Red Rocks Point scores on debut

 By Donal MurphyFri 27th Sep 2013, 19:25

Red Rocks Point is driven out by Joseph O'Brien (left) to beat Cheeky Chappie
Red Rocks Point is driven out by Joseph O'Brien (left) to beat Cheeky Chappie
(Healy Racing Photos)
Red Rocks Point got off the mark on the first time of asking as he took the Irish Stallion Farms EBF 2yo Maiden, under Joseph O’Brien for his father Aidan.

The bay son of Fastnet Rock was well-supported on-course, and having opened at 3/1, he was backed into 7/4 favouritism at the off.

Having raced in mid-division, he was pushed along briefly four furlongs out, and he was ridden and progressed into third two furlongs from home.

He hit the front inside the final furlong, and he wandered slightly under pressure in the closing stages, but he held on to score by a neck.

Cheeky Chappie, for David Wachman and Wayne Lordan, finished a gallant second at 10/1, while Zarib came through to take third, two and three parts of a length back under Declan McDonogh for Mick Halford at 16/1.

Joseph O’Brien said afterwards: "He is a grand horse and he is quite laid back. He was quite lazy during the race and he is by a very exciting sire."

Additional reporting by Alan Magee


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Big day in prospect at Curragh on Sunday

Fri 27th Sep 2013, 11:50

Geoffrey Chaucer
Geoffrey Chaucer
(Healy Racing Photos)
Geoffrey Chaucer and Oklahoma City will attempt to give trainer Aidan O’Brien his 13th Juddmonte Beresford Stakes success at Curragh this Sunday.

O’Brien has an outstanding record in the Group Two Juddmonte Beresford Stakes and the champion trainer, who is chasing his 13th success in the race, has a strong representation in the featured contest at the Curragh this Sunday.

O’Brien is responsible for two of the six runners in the race with Geoffrey Chaucer and Oklahoma City. He will face tough opposition from Exogenesis trained by Ger Lyons, the Andy Oliver-trained All Set To Go, Not to Yield trained by Dermot Weld and Altruistic trained and ridden by Johnny Murtagh.

A strong support programme includes the Group Three C.L. Weld Park Stakes with trainer Dermot Weld hoping to win the race named to honour his late father with Tarfasha. Other notable contenders include the John Oxx trained My Titania, Chroussa trained by Jim Bolger and recent Tipperary winner Diamond Stilettos.

The Aidan O’Brien trained Guerre is among the eight runners in the Listed Anglesey Lodge Equine Hospital Blenheim Stakes, while Galway Hurdle winner Missunited returns to the flat when the Michael Winters trained mare lines up in The Irish Field Loughbrown Stakes where she will face the Dermot Weld trained Unaccompanied and Eye of the Storm trained by Aidan O’Brien most notably

Meanwhile, there are 25 entries for the valuable Mongey Communications Joe McGrath Premier Handicap including Twenty One Choice trained in Britain by Ed De Giles and 22 runners in The Irish Times Handicap

- - 1st race 2.10pm

Admission 15 euro Seniors and Under 25s 8 euro, Under 16s free (accompanied by an adult)

To celebrate the All Ireland Hurling Final replay between Cork and Clare, the Curragh is offering all ticket holders, FREE admission to the races on Sunday 29th September. Ticket holders simply have to bring their All Ireland Hurling Replay Ticket to the races to avail of this offer.

The race day is themed for the Irish Pony Club to celebrate the end of their busy summer season with a fun and exciting day for all the family to enjoy and presentations made throughout the afternoon to winners of various pony club disciplines. All Pony Club Members gain free admission.

The Jog for Jockeys, a 5k and 10k run over the spectacular Curragh plains takes place during the morning of the race day with proceeds going to the Injured Jockeys Fund, for details see www.jogforjockeys.ie

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    O'Brien dominates Dewhurst Entries          


Wed 25th Sep 2013, 14:24

War Command
War Command
(Healy Racing Photos)

Aidan O'Brien is responsible for 13 of the entries after the latest forfeit stage of the Dewhurst

The master of Ballydoyle has surprisingly won only two previous renewals of the seven-furlong Group One (Rock Of Gibraltar, 2001 and Beethoven, 2009), which so often sees the crowning of the season's champion juvenile.

Among this year's baker's dozen are Great White Eagle, War Command and Michaelmas, although that trio are all engaged in the six-furlong Middle Park Stakes on the same afternoon.

O'Brien still has two unraced colts in the race in Red Rocks Point and Johann Strauss.





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Ballydoyle have no runners in G1 Cheveley Park 

Say - Sun Chariot

Kingfisher - Royal Lodge 

Wonderfully - Fillies Mile


Aidan O’Brien out to land number 13 in Sunday’s Juddmonte Beresford Stakes, while Irish Pony Club will celebrate another successful year



September 24, 2013

O’Brien out to land win number thirteen in Sunday’s Group Two Juddmonte Beresford Stakes at the Curragh

Trainer AIDAN O’BRIEN has an outstanding record in the Group Two Juddmonte Beresford Stakes and the champion trainer, who is chasing his 13th success in the race, has a strong representation in the featured contest at the Curragh this Sunday. O’Brien is responsible for 7 of the 11 horses left in at today’s five-day entry stage, while the Andy Oliver-trained All Set To Go has been supplemented to the race.

O’Brien can choose between Agena, Friendship, Geoffrey Chaucer, Illinois, Kingfisher Oklahoma City and Mekong River. “The horses are all very well and they will do their final piece of work tomorrow (Wednesday) after which we will make a decision regarding plans for Sunday,” commented the Ballydoyle trainer.



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O'Brien outlines Arc plans

 By Donal MurphyMon 23rd Sep 2013, 10:30

Kingsbarns pictured winning his maiden at Navan
Kingsbarns pictured winning his maiden at Navan
(Healy Racing Photos)
Aidan O'Brien has four horses "in the mix" for the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe with running plans likely to be firmed up next week.

The Ballydoyle trainer is seeking a second Arc after Dylan Thomas in 2007, and at this stage can call on Ruler Of The World, Leading Light, Kingsbarns and Camelot, although ground conditions are crucial to the latter.

Epsom Derby hero Ruler Of The World stated his case when narrowly beaten in the Prix Niel, while Queen's Vase winner Leading Light landed the Ladbrokes St Leger at Doncaster to earn a possible supplementary entry for the Longchamp showpiece on October 6th.

O'Brien said: "At the moment we have in the mix Ruler Of The World, Leading Light, Camelot and Kingsbarns. Camelot will only run if the ground is good or better.

"Leading Light will have to be supplemented and he will work next week before any decision is made. He's lazy but is not short of class."

One-time Derby favourite Kingsbarns has had just one run since winning last year's Racing Post Trophy, that when a heavily-eased last of six in the Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown.

O'Brien said: "It would be a big call after Leopardstown and he's also in the Champion Stakes at Ascot.

"We have always thought the world of him, he seemed to bang his knees together crossing the road down the back straight at Leopardstown. Joseph (O'Brien) waited about a furlong to see if his action would come back but the race was over then and he looked after him."

O'Brien added that he was likely to be represented by Wonderfully in the Shadwell Fillies' Mile at Newmarket on Friday but that Darwin and Cristoforo Colombo were set to bypass the Joel Stakes on the same card.



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Angel Chorus makes right noises in Listowel

 By Michael GrahamSat 21st Sep 2013, 17:45

Angel Chorus, middle, comes through to take the spoils in Listowel
Angel Chorus, middle, comes through to take the spoils in Listowel
(Healy Racing Photos)
Angel Chorus swept through under Sara O’Brien to run out the ready victor of the mares bumper in Listowel.

There was two and a half lengths in it at the end of two miles, but when she found the gap just over a furlong out, after suffering some buffeting, the four-year-old filly by Dylan Thomas quickened away nicely.

Champion flat trainer Aidan O’Brien commented: “That was great. It got a little bit tight out there, but she travelled well and got through the gap. It’s a lovely place to get a winner.

“She had a good run the last day and she’ll probably go for a winners’ bumper next and has the option of running on the flat. She could go jumping for someone at some stage.”

Angel Chorus gave her supporters a 4/1 return. Rock High Lady at 12s came in second with 5/2 favourite Loch Ard Lady third, beaten three lengths by the winner.

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes


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Horses sold Thanks to Ian Humphries


kingston Jamaica USD 305,000 to Justin Casse  


Point Piper USD 80,000 to Jose Luis Espinoza



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Warrior shows his best in blinkers

Fri 20th Sep 2013, 15:59

Egyptian Warrior slammed the opposition at Listowel
Egyptian Warrior slammed the opposition at Listowel
(Healy Racing Photos)
His siblings vary from Rock Of Gibraltar staying hurdler Gimli's Rock to his own-brother, Racing Post Trophy scorer, Kingbarns, and on outing number sevenEgyptian Warrior got off the mark in the Listowel Printing Works Maiden underJoseph O'Brien.

Now wearing blinkers having sported cheek-pieces in the past, Egyptian Warriorstayed on much too powerfully in the closing stages of this mile and a half contest to slam Hareth by seven lengths with the well-gambled favourite Park Place having to settle for third.

Joseph acknowledged of his mother and father's charge: "It was probably a fairly ordinary race but he picked up well. The blinkers probably helped.

"He was disappointing in a couple of bumpers but the ground was bottomless and today's ground was soft but it wasn't winter soft." (TW & EM)







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2yo's Named thanks to Ian Humphries & Imelda Parker 

Only 1 colt and 1 filly remain unnamed Full List Here >>  


A Greater Force (24/3/11) - Montjeu ex Dibenoise (C)

            Full brother to Gr.1 winners Recital and Corre Caminos

Government House (19/3/11) - Giant's Causeway ex Galleon Of Gold (C)

            Half brother to US Gr.1 winner Game Face

Iveragh (28/2/11) - Fastnet Rock x In My Dreams (F)

            Dam half sister to Rock Of Gibraltar




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Eye Storms to easy Listed success

 By Gary CarsonWed 18th Sep 2013, 15:52

Eye Of The Storm scores in style
Eye Of The Storm scores in style
(Healy Racing Photos)
It proved straight forward for Eye Of The Storm as he justified his short price in the Edmund & Josie Whelan Memorial Stakes at Listowel this afternoon.

Joseph O'Brien, completing a double on the card, tracked leader Inis Meainthroughout in the mile-and-a-half listed contest before letting his mount hit the front with just under half a mile to run.

The champion jockey asked his mount for an effort in the straight and he galloped on strongly in the closing stages to post a cosy two-and-a-half length success over the early leader.

The well-backed 10/11 favourite (from 5/4) was confirming Galway placings withInis Meain as the pair had been second and third behind Missunited nine days ago.

The Aidan O'Brien-trained winner had been making his return from a break then having last run in April when just denied by Sugar Boy in the Sandown Classic Trial.

“He didn't do the right thing at Galway. It was his first run for a long time and he ran off the first bend. That cost me the race as he lost six lengths,” said O'Brien junior.

“The plan today was to get him relaxed and lets things happen after that. It was his first time left handed and we were worried about that but he quickened up well. He wants nicer ground.”

(Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes)




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Hotpot Craftsman gets job done in opener

 By Gary CarsonWed 18th Sep 2013, 14:44

Joseph O'Brien
Joseph O'Brien
(Healy Racing Photos)
Craftsman was backed like defeat was out of the question in the opener at Listowel and got the job done under Joseph O'Brien.

The son of MasterCraftsman opened 8/13 on course but was punted into 2/5 for the seven-furlong Listowel Arms Median Auction Maiden.

The Ballydoyle colt tracked the leaders before taking closer order entering the straight as Upper Silesian tackled front-runner Screenshot.

The hotpot was ridden to lead just inside the final furlong and kept on well in the closing stages for a two-length success.

The Panhandler, who had attracted support at fancy prices this morning (40/1 into 16/1), got up close home to nab Upper Silesian for the runner-up spot.

Craftsman had just lost out by half a length on his debut at Gowran Park earlier in the month.

“He's a grand horse and he had a nice run first time out. He shows plenty of pace so the trip was no problem. He handles an ease but that was very testing,” said the winning rider afterwards.

(Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes)





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               Foundry Sold 

 


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Melbourne Cup weights revealed

Tue 17th Sep 2013, 10:09

Leading Light has 8st 4lbs for the Melbourne Cup
Leading Light has 8st 4lbs for the Melbourne Cup
(Healy Racing Photos)
Dunaden and Green Moon, winners of the last two Emirates Melbourne Cups, head the weights for this year's renewal at Flemington Park on November 5.

The Mikel Delzangles-trained Dunaden has been alloted 58.5kg (9st 3lb) by the handicapper following his 2011 success while Robert Hickmott's Green Moon, who struck gold 12 months ago, has been given 57.5kg (9st 1lb) as he tries for back-to-back wins.

Ed Dunlop's Red Cadeaux lost out to Dunaden in a tight finish and has 56.5kg (8st 13lb) this time around, 3lb more than last year while Delzangles' runner has been eased 1lb.

"Dunaden has been allotted the top weight for the second year running, however I have reduced his weight by 0.5kg to 58.5kg in recognition of the fact he was beaten almost 10 lengths by Green Moon in last year's race when favourite," said Greg Carpenter, general manager of Racing Victoria.

"Whilst Dunaden enjoys a weight reduction, history still presents a significant challenge as no original top weight has won the Cup since Comic Court in 1950. In fact 20 of them have tried and not one of them has placed so he will rightly claim a place in history if triumphant," he said.

Tom Dascombe's Brown Panther had to miss an intended prep run in the Irish St Leger last weekend as he was not 100% but he remains in the mix and has been given 55kg (8st 9lb).

Irish Leger winner Voleuse De Coeurs has 54kg (8st 7lb) but connections have indicated she is likely to head to France in the autumn rather than Australia.

Her trainer Dermot Weld still has Pale Mimosa in the mix on 50kg (7st 12lb), a weight also allotted to John Hammond's Hammerfest, the Aidan O'Brien-trained Foundry, Andre Fabre's Only A Pleasure, Opinion from Sir Michael Stoute's yard, the Peter Chapple-Hyam-trained Caravan Rolls On and Ed Walker's Ruscello.

O'Brien has more prominent candidates in St Leger hero Leading Light on 52.5kg (8st 4lb) and Ernest Hemingway 53.5kg (8st 6lb) while the Willie Mullins-trained Simenon is also on 53.5kg.

Johnny Murtagh's Royal Diamond has 54.5kg (8st 8lb), the same mark as Marco Botti's Dandino and the Saeed bin Suroor-trained Ahzeemah, who finished second in the Irish Leger.

Godolphin also have Royal Empire on 54kg , Colour Vision on 52.5kg and Songcraft on 52kg (8st 3lb).

Mount Athos finished fifth last year for Luca Cumani and has 54kg again this time while Dunlop's Joshua Tree is on 55kg (8st 9lb).

David Lanigan has two contenders in Main Sequence on 53kg (8st 5lb) and Biographer on 50.5kg (7st 13lb).

Nicky Henderson's Forgotten Voice has 52.5kg with William Haggas' Sun Central on 51.5kg rounding out the European interest.

Gai Waterhouse has plenty of contenders headed by last year's second Fiorente (55kg), winner of the Dato Tan Chin Nam Stakes, while the Darren Weir-trained Puissance De Lune (54.5kg) is also prominent in the betting.

Hickmott's Sea Moon (56.5kg) is a familiar name having been formerly trained by Stoute while ex-John Gosden pair of Masked Marvel (54kg) and Thought Worthy (52.5kg) also feature.



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 Updated the great mans Career stats


 





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Mekong maintains his unbeaten record

 By Donal MurphyMon 16th Sep 2013, 17:38

Mekong River (navy) comes through to head Hidden Oasis in the closing stages
Mekong River (navy) comes through to head Hidden Oasis in the closing stages
(Healy Racing Photos)
Mekong River came from last to first to win the feature race at Listowel this afternoon, the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Premier Nursery.

Trained by Aidan O’Brien, and ridden by Joseph, the son of Galileo was maintaining his unbeaten record today, after winning his maiden (in the Stewards Room) at Gowran last month before following up at Killarney.

Having opened at 3/1 overnight with Paddy Power, he was available at just 7/4 with the same firm this morning, however he drifted to an opening show of 5/2 on-course before going off at 9/4 chance.

Fitted with a visor for the first time, he was settled towards the rear and he was being driven along in last as they entering the straight.

However he responded well for pressure, getting a lovely run through on the rail over a furlong from home, keeping on strongly in the closing stages to score by a length.

Hidden Oasis (7/2 overnight, and 2/1 to 15/8 favourite on-course) hit the front a furlong out and he looked the most likely winner under Fran Berry for David Wachman, however he had no answer to the winners challenge, and he had to settle for second, with Colour Blue just a neck back in third.

Joseph O’Brien said afterwards: "He is improving away with racing and he is a grand horse. I was happy to get the gap on the rail and he quickened up well when he got it.

"He seems to be coming along and it is hard to know how good he is."

Additional reporting by Alan Magee




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Ruler Of The World pipped in Prix Niel

Sun 15th Sep 2013, 14:23

Ruler Of The World
Ruler Of The World
(Healy Racing Photos)
Kizuna just edged out Ruler Of The World in a tremendous finale involving two Derby winners in the Qatar Prix Niel, the first of the three Arc trials, at Longchamp.

It was Japanese Derby hero Kizuna who got the verdict on the nod over Epsom victor Ruler Of The World in a tight finish.

Despite having endured a troubled passage to the line, Ryan Moore brought the Aidan O'Brien-trained colt with a late run and there was just a whisker in it.

A photo-finish was called, with the Shozo Sasaki-trained Kizuna, ridden by Yutaka Take, getting the verdict by a short head.

The Andre Fabre-trained Ocovango was third, with his stablemate Flintshire, who had gone into the race as ante-post favourite for the Arc, only fourth.


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Guerre another promising O'Brien juvenile

 By Michael GrahamSun 15th Sep 2013, 14:16

Guerre, right, beats Atlantic Sea, left, and Diamond Stilettos at the Curragh
Guerre, right, beats Atlantic Sea, left, and Diamond Stilettos at the Curragh
(Healy Racing Photos)
Favourite Guerre kicked off the Leger meeting at the Curragh with a snug victory in the two-year-old maiden.

The American-bred son of War Front, trained by Aidan O’Brien, was popular in the betting ring before this first racecourse appearance as his price contracted to 11/10 on the off from an opening show of 6/4.

Diamond Stilettos bounced out smartly and took the field along in this contest over the straight six furlongs. Guerre though came through under Joseph O’Brien with a furlong and a half to run and quickened up nicely to beat the staying on Atlantic Sea (7/1) by three parts of a length.

Daimond Stilettos ran a very creditable race in third after showing up prominently throughout. She was just pipped for second by a head, but rewarded her each way punters at 66/1 and looked to be one for the horse tracker here as this could prove to be a hot maiden.

There was a two and a half length gap back to Zaindera in fourth of the 19 runners.

“He quickened up well, but he then got a bit tired and he was green too. He could turn into a Middle Park horse and could improve quite a bit,” Aidan O’Brien said.

Guerre holds an entry in next year’s Irish 2,000 Guineas.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee


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Camelot out of Longchamp Group 2

Sun 15th Sep 2013, 11:18

Camelot
Camelot
(Healy Racing Photos)
Aidan O'Brien's Camelot will not run in the Group 2 Prix Foy at Longchamp today as the ground has gone too soft for him. The plan is to work him after racing this afternoon at the Curragh.

Last year's dual Derby winner won the Group 3 Mooresbridge Stakes at the Curragh in May, but was beaten by Al Kazeem in his subsequent two Group 1 outings in the Tattersalls Gold Cup and Prince Of Wales's Stakes.

 





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Leading Light wins the St Leger Aidan's 4th and the 3rd for super Sire Montjeu YES Get in there 

(APOB English Classics 20) 2000 Guineas 6 1000 Guineas 2 Derby 4 Oaks 4 St leger 4

Ballydoyle home of classic winners they just keep coming and coming well done lads and lasses


Leading Light (right) holds off Talent (red cap) to score

Leading Light (right) holds off Talent (red cap) to score

                      Leading Light produced a display of power to take the Ladbrokes St Leger for the most famous father-and-so



Light leads them home in the St Leger

Sat 14th Sep 2013, 16:19

Leading Light pictured on his way to victory at Royal Ascot
Leading Light pictured on his way to victory at Royal Ascot
(Healy Racing Photos)
Leading Light produced a display of power to take the Ladbrokes St Leger for the most famous father-and-son team in racing.

Jockey Joseph O'Brien, supplying his father Aidan with his fourth winner of Britain's oldest Classic, settled his mount in second place in the early stages as pacesetter Cap O'Rushes cut out a fairly sedate early tempo.

And although the leader tried to kick on from the front early in the home straight, the winner was always ideally positioned and he struck for home well over two furlongs out.

Galileo Rock, on his outside, tried to go with the winner and may have momentarily headed him briefly, but the successful 7/2 favourite simply had too many guns for his rivals and put clear air between himself and his rivals on the run to the furlong-pole that could not be overhauled.

Talent (8/1), who would not have been suited by the slow early gallop, cruised through the field to try and throw down her challenge to the winner but ultimately couldn't quite find as much as it looked she might.

She stayed on determinedly for second though, a length and a quarter adrift of the winner, and three-quarters of a length ahead of Galileo Rock. Godolphin's Libertarian hit top gear too late and finished fourth.




Leading Light produced a display of power to take the Ladbrokes St Leger for the most famous father-and-son team in racing.

Leading Light: Leger winner
Leading Light: Leger winner


Jockey Joseph O'Brien, supplying his father Aidan with his fourth winner of Britain's oldest Classic, settled his mount in second place in the early stages as pacesetter Cap O'Rushes cut out a fairly sedate early tempo.

And although the leader tried to kick on from the front early in the home straight, the winner was always ideally positioned and he struck for home well over two furlongs out.Jockey Joseph O'Brien, supplying his father Aidan with his fourth winner of Britain's oldest Classic, settled his mount in second place in the early stages as pacesetter Cap O'Rushes cut out a fairly sedate early tempo.

Galileo Rock, on his outside, tried to go with the winner and may have momentarily headed him briefly, but the successful 7/2 favourite simply had too many guns for his rivals and put clear air between himself and his rivals on the run to the furlong-pole that could not be overhauled.

Talent (8/1), who would not have been suited by the slow early gallop, cruised through the field to try and throw down her challenge to the winner but ultimately couldn't quite find as much as it looked she might.

She stayed on determinedly for second though, a length and a quarter adrift of the winner, and three-quarters of a length ahead of Galileo Rock. Godolphin's Libertarian hit top gear too late and finished fourth.

And although the leader tried to kick on from the front early in the home straight, the winner was always ideally positioned and he struck for home well over two furlongs out.

Galileo Rock, on his outside, tried to go with the winner and may have momentarily headed him briefly, but the successful 7/2 favourite simply had too many guns for his rivals and put clear air between himself and his rivals on the run to the furlong-pole that could not be overhauled.

Talent (8/1), who would not have been suited by the slow early gallop, cruised through the field to try and throw down her challenge to the winner but ultimately couldn't quite find as much as it looked she might.

She stayed on determinedly for second though, a length and a quarter adrift of the winner, and three-quarters of a length ahead of Galileo Rock. Godolphin's Libertarian hit top gear too late and finished fourth.




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2YO Page updated

3 x 2yo colts named this week Special Thanks to Ian Humphries 


 Affairs of State (24/3/11) - Montjeu ex Lucina

            Dam half sister to triple Gr.3 winner Blue Monday

Holy Cross (2/5/11) - Yeats ex Bleu Ciel Et Blanc

            Half brother to 4 time Gr.1 jump winner Binocular

Desert Tiger (12/4/11) - Galileo ex Khoruna

            Half brother to Triple Gr.1 winner Kazzia

Lone Star (2011) - Sea The Stars x Foolish Act

               No Info on this one yet 




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Sad News that Perhaps (2yo filly by Galileo) was lost this week very sad news she was going to be a nice middle distance classic prospect next season.

Paul (AOBFS)







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Darwin added to Curragh line-up

  • Last Updated: September 10 2013, 14:09 BST

Aidan O'Brien has supplemented Darwin for the Manguard Plus Solonaway Stakes at the Curragh on Sunday.

Darwin beats Gordon Lord Byron at the Curragh

Darwin beats Gordon Lord Byron  

 









Darwin will now step back up to a mile after connections paid €6,000 to get him into the race.The former American-based colt has made a fine start in Ireland, with victories at Naas and in a Group Three Minstrel Stakes at the Curragh.

O'Brien's three-year-old, who also holds an entry in the OLBG Park Stakes at Doncaster on Saturday, could be joined in the line-up by stablemates Most Improved, Afonso De Sousa and Indian Chief.

Twenty horses, including the likes of Fort Knox, Elleval and Leitir Mor, have been confirmed for the Group Three.

A three-pronged British contingent consists of Belgian Bill, Red Jazz and Cape Peron.



 



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Australia has O'Brien purring

Last Updated: September 9, 2013 3:44pm


Australia: 'Dream horse'

Australia: 'Dream horse'

Aidan O'Brien has hailed juvenile star Australia as a dream horse following his dazzling Leopardstown victory over the weekend.

A son of Galileo out of the great racemare Ouija Board, Australia cost 525,000 guineas at Tattersalls last October and after suffering defeat on his racecourse bow in June, when he was very slowly away, he has won twice since.

Australia's six-length demolition job of the highly-regarded Free Eagle in last Saturday's ICON Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf Trial Stakes saw him promoted to the head of the betting for next year's Investec Derby at Epsom, with most firms offering 6-1 about his Classic chance though Sky Bet offer 8-1 about the colt.

"Everyone probably knows we always thought he was the best horse we've ever had," O'Brien said.

"He lost three or four lengths in the stalls the first day and the next day he was very green.

"I don't want to be blowing up the horse but he was always doing things no two-year-old has ever done before."

Australia holds a clutch of entries in the big autumn juvenile events, including the Dewhurst Stakes and the Racing Post Trophy, but O'Brien will defer to the owning Coolmore syndicate as to future plans.

He said: "The lads will decide that, but he's something you dream of."


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Timeforms view on Leger 

A stronger Aidan O'Brien- trained candidate could be the Great Voltigeur runner-up,Foundry. An impressive winner on his sole start as a juvenile, Foundry shaped extremely well on his return from a 290-day absence at York, showing much improved form as he stuck to his task well in the closing stages, indicating that he is likely to stay the St Leger trip. He makes more appeal than his stablemate, Leading Light, at a similar price,


A look ahead to Saturday's English Leger

Mon 9th Sep 2013, 18:01

Leading Light
Leading Light
(Healy Racing Photos)
Godolphin's racing manager Simon Crisford offered Cap O'Rushes as the best-value option of the trio bidding to land his team a sixth Ladbrokes St Leger at Doncaster on Saturday.

The Gordon Stakes winner is more than twice the odds of Godolphin's shortest-priced challenger, Libertarian, and also bigger than Secret Number.

Sheikh Mohammed, who has had no shortage of success in the season's final Classic in his own maroon and white silks, saw Rule Of Law and Mastery enter the roll of honour this century before Encke caused an upset against Camelot 12 months ago.

Crisford poured some cold water on both Libertarian and Secret Number, who finished fifth in the Gordon before running a respectable third behind Telescope in the Great Voltigeur Stakes at York.

Libertarian, who won the Dante Stakes and was second in the Investec Derby, now races for Charlie Appleby having left Karl Burke, but has not been sighted since trailing home second-last in the Irish Derby.

"Secret Number is a nearly horse, he doesn't quite manage to win on the big occasion. I'd be surprised if he was good enough," said Crisford.

"We bought Libertarian with this very much in mind and it has taken him a long time to get over that run.

"Karl said he never shows anything in his work and we're sort of guessing. If you said is he going to be the sixth St Leger winner for Godolphin, I'd say the jury's out. He's got a lot to prove."

Secret Number finished some way in front of Cap O'Rushes in the Voltigeur and only held on by a head from the fast-finishing Excess Knowledge at Goodwood.

Crisford said: "The ground was quick on the Knavesmire.

"Excess Knowledge is a short price and Cap O'Rushes is an unconsidered outsider. We beat him at Goodwood, although people will say Excess Knowledge was an unlucky loser.

"I'd say of our three, he's the most interesting contender by some way - at the prices."

Aidan O'Brien and Coolmore have three of the 14 confirmations themselves as they look for revenge after Camelot, although the trainer warned Eye Of The Storm had only been left in the line-up "in case he bolted in" at Galway on Monday night.

Leading Light, who missed the Voltigeur due to not being completely right, has been absent since landing the Queen's Vase at Royal Ascot, while Foundry made a highly encouraging seasonal reappearance when second in the York trial.

Ryan Moore is likely to earn himself a ride for the team, having claimed the Derby on Ruler Of The World.

O'Brien said of jockey bookings: "I don't think it will be a problem. Obviously we have Joseph (O'Brien), Seamus (Heffernan) and if we run a couple, then Ryan would be there."

John Gosden, seeking a fifth St Leger victory, confirmed via a telephone interview at a media event in London that James Doyle will have his first Classic ride as Khalid Abdullah's retained jockey aboard Excess Knowledge.

William Buick will partner stablemate Feel Like Dancing, the Bahrain Trophy winner, while David Wachman will use Wayne Lordan once again for his leading contender and twice Classic-placed Galileo Rock.

Kieren Fallon maintains his association with Great Hall, having steered him to a Haydock handicap success.

"Richard Hughes was very complimentary when he won on him at Newmarket, but Kieren knows the horse well," said Brian Meehan.

Ralph Beckett said Epsom Oaks winner Talent "just needs a bit of juice" but should take her place in the line-up, while Havana Beat and Ralston Road were also confirmed runners by their trainers.

Five horses - Dashing Star, Dabadiyan, Plinth, Renew and Willie The Whipper - were removed at the latest stage while the ground on Town Moor is currently good, good to firm in places with a few showers around.


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Darwin could be natural selection in Park Stakes at Doncaster

Updated: Monday, 09 Sep 2013 15:07 | 0 Comments


US import Darwin is unbeaten in two starts for Aidan O'Brien
US import Darwin is unbeaten in two starts for Aidan O'Brien

Darwin highlights a strong Aidan O'Brien entry among 21 horses confirmed for Saturday's OLBG Park Stakes at Doncaster.

The three-year-old has won both his starts for the Ballydoyle handler since moving from America, most recently beating subsequent Sprint Cup winner Gordon Lord Byron at the Curragh in July.

O'Brien also has Jersey Stakes hero Gale Force Ten, Cristoforo Colombo and Afonso De Sousa in the seven-furlong Group Two event.

Queen Anne Stakes second Aljamaaheer could bid to atone for his recent French defeat dropping back in distance from a mile while Gregorian is in line to build on his Hungerford Stakes win for John Gosden.

Hungerford third Tawhid and fourth Caspar Netscher could try their luck again with Glory Awaits and Edward Lynam's lightly-raced filly Viztoria other interesting candidates from the Classic generation.

Last year's second Pastoral Player, Arnold Lane, Burwaaz, Dandy Boy, Lockwood, Pintura, Red Jazz, Sirius Prospect, Sovereign Debt, Professor and The Gold Cheongsam also stand their ground.



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14 in line for Leger glory

Mon 9th Sep 2013, 15:42

Galileo Rock
Galileo Rock
(Healy Racing Photos)
Excess Knowledge, Galileo Rock and Leading Light are among 14 confirmations for the Ladbrokes St Leger at Doncaster on Saturday.

A year ago the Triple Crown-seeking Camelot was all the rage for the world's oldest Classic, but he suffered a shock defeat at the hands of Godolphin's Encke.

This season's renewal has a far more open look to it, with Excess Knowledge and Galileo Rock disputing favouritism with most bookmakers.

Excess Knowledge earned his place in the field when narrowly denied in a thrilling Gordon Stakes at Glorious Goodwood and aims to give trainer John Gosden a fifth St Leger victory.

The Clarehaven maestro also has Bahrain Trophy winner Feel Like Dancing still in the reckoning.

Galileo Rock would not be winning out of turn, having been placed in both the English and Irish Derby for trainer David Wachman.

Leading Light, who completed a four-timer in the Queen's Vase at Royal Ascot, is one of three possible runners for trainer Aidan O'Brien.

The Ballydoyle handler, who has previously won the Leger with Milan (2001), Brian Boru (2003) and Scorpion (2005) also has Eye Of The Storm and Foundry engaged.

Godolphin are also strong-armed with Gordon Stakes winner Cap O'Rushes, Libertarian and Secret Number all in the mix.

Epsom Oaks winner Talent is another contender for trainer Ralph Beckett.

Great Hall, Havana Beat, London Bridge and Ralston Road complete the list of possible runners.

Five horses - Dashing Star, Dabadiyan, Plinth, Renew and Willie The Whipper - were removed at the latest entry stage.




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A lovely start for Carlo at Galway

Mon 9th Sep 2013, 16:39

Carlo Bugatti (nearside) beat Whitey O' Gwaun in the 1st at Galway
Carlo Bugatti (nearside) beat Whitey O' Gwaun in the 1st at Galway
Carlo Bugatti (5/2 second favourite) displayed a willing attitude and plenty of ability to score on his debut in the opening Donnelly's Of Barna European Breeders Fund Maiden at Galway.

Coming down the hill in the final half mile Joseph O'Brien had to get after the son of Montjeu.

However it's more about what they do when they hit the rising ground at Ballybrit and the juvenile went into overdrive approaching the straight.

Favourite, Whitey O' Gwaun (a bit keen early on) for the Weld team, wasn't going to go down without a fight though and it was only in the closing stages that the Ballydoyle victor got on top, crossing the line three parts of a length to the good.

In a good sign of any maiden the rest were well stretched out behind with a six and a half length gap back to the third placed Bogardus (a 5/1 shot with the benefit of two previous runs).

Joseph, on his 103rd winner of the campaign, said: "He jumped well and he's a nice horse. He was caught wide which wasn't ideal and he was a bit green throughout the race."

The other Aidan O'Brien runner, Buonarroti (Seamie Heffernan up, a 7/1 chance) finished in fourth, beaten a total of nine lengths. (DM & EM)



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Boldini impresses at Dundalk

  • Last Updated: September 8 2013, 18:36 BST

Giovanni Boldini added his name to the powerful squad of two-year-olds to look out for at Aidan O'Brien's Ballydoyle base with a smooth racecourse introduction at Dundalk.


O'Brien: Unveiled another exciting juvenile runner      O'Brien: Unveiled another exciting juvenile runner

Sent off at 1-3 in a three-runner affair for the www.dundalkstadium.com Race over seven furlongs, the War Front colt, who cost 675,000 guineas as a yearling and holds a plethora of big-race engagements, was dropped in last by Joseph O'Brien and moved sweetly through the early stages.

Still with plenty of horse underneath him, O'Brien jnr let out an inch of rein a furlong and a half out and while he momentarily took his time to gather in leader Atlantic Sea he was always going to do so.

The winning rider said: "He was a little slowly away but relaxed well and they didn't go mad. He got a nice easy lead and my lad quickened but was quite idle when he got there, he had a good look at the line coming to it.

"He's a lovely horse on that fast ground and we have a couple of nice War Fronts now and he looks a stallion going places."



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Boldini earns Classic quotes with maiden win

Sun 8th Sep 2013, 18:15

Giovanni Boldini (right) and Joseph O'Brien
Giovanni Boldini (right) and Joseph O'Brien
(Healy Racing Photos)
Ballydoyle introduced another exciting two year old winner at Dundalk today whenGiovanni Boldini readily defeated his two rivals in the www.dundalkstadium.com Race.

The race attracted just four declarations but was reduced to three runners when Rodayna was taken out (stiff and sore).Giovanni Boldini, under Joseph O'Brien, was held up last of the three runners but quickened up well to move past Atlantic Seainside the final furlong for a length and a half success. Ninety one raced GlassaturaThere was the only previous winner in the race but finished three and a quarter lengths further back last.

Winning trainer Aidan O'Brien wasn't present the winning jockey and his son later reported “he was a little slowly away but relaxed well and they didn't go mad. He got a nice easy lead and my lad quickened but was quite idle when he got there; he had a good gawk at the line coming to it.

“He's a lovely horse on that fast ground and we have a couple of nice War Fronts now and he looks a stallion going places.”

Stan James Bookmakers later cut Giovanni Boldini to 25/1 (from 33s) for the 2014 2,000 Guineas.

By Thomas Weekes, quotes from Gary Carson



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Australia new Derby favourite after slamming Free Eagle

Last Updated: September 7, 2013 5:49pm



Australia goes clear to score from Free Eagle

Australia goes clear to score from Free Eagle

Australia (5/2) ran out a clear winner of the ICON Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf Trial Stakes as Free Eagle met with a shock defeat.

Kingfisher, a stablemate of the winner, cut out the early running with Free Eagle - the 2/5 favourite - in his slipstream, but in behind Joseph O'Brien had all moves covered.

He made his run approaching the furlong marker and the beautifully-bred winner, a son of Galileo and Ouija Board, swept past Free Eagle in a matter of strides.

The winning rider was all smiles as he passed the line well clear of the runner-up who had been favourite for next year's Investec Derby going into the race.

Australia is now the market leader for the Epsom Classic with both Sky Bet and Betfred going 6/1. Spokesman for the former firm, Michael Shinners, said: "As well as being bred like a champion, it looks as if Australia has the talent to live up to his pedigree. We were impressed."

O'Brien commented: "You have to be delighted with that. We always thought the world of him, even the lads thought the world of him when they bought him at the sales.

"He could run again, he doesn't have to as he's had three runs and learnt plenty. It was lovely to drop him in today in a nice race and he had to come around them and quicken up.

"He could go any way as he has plenty of speed as well. He could be a Dewhurst type or anything. He has some pace and he really turned it on.

"If he doesn't run again, we will train him for the Classics next year."



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The United States brings up O'Brien's treble

 By Michael GrahamSat 7th Sep 2013, 18:39

The United States is hard at work in front
The United States is hard at work in front
(Healy Racing Photos)
The United States looked like he would be swallowed up in the last two furlongs of the mile and a quarter Group 3 KPMG Enterprise Stakes, but he kept finding more to give trainer Aidan O’Brien a treble at Leopardstown.

Elleval looked to be the main dangerous as he cut a swathe through the field assisted by Fergal Lynch. He came through to dispute the lead a furlong out, but couldn’t conquer his rival who prevailed by half a length to justify 2/1 favouritism.

Aidan O’Brien said of the three-year-old son of Galileo: “He toughed it out. I was very worried about the ground as he had a bad run earlier on it.

“That’s as soft as he wants it. He’ll probably get a bit further, but I think he’s better on faster ground.”

David Marnane’s Elleval was incredibly weak in the betting market, drifting from 5/1 in early trading today out to an SP of 14/1.

This was The United States’s third win from four races in a contest that Aidan O’Brien has won four of the last six renewals of.

Zand attracted plenty of euro at the track as his price contracted to 5/2 from an opening show of 4/1. However, John Oxx’s three-year-old weakened in the home straight to finish sixth of the seven runners.

Jockey Joseph O'Brien was partnering his second winner of the day.

Additional reporting by Gary Carson


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Australia lights up Foxrock

 By Michael GrahamSat 7th Sep 2013, 17:44

Australia, left, impresses at Leopardstown
Australia, left, impresses at Leopardstown
(Healy Racing Photos)
Impeccably-bred Australia routed his three rivals in the Group 3 ICON Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf Trial Stakes when scorching home by six lengths for Aidan and Joseph O’Brien.

Dermot Weld’s Free Eagle was sent off the very warm 2/5 favourite on the back of his scintillating winning performance over course and distance just over three weeks ago.

Once Australia drew alongside Free Eagle a furlong and a half out the result was quickly confirmed as he strode away from his rival who couldn’t show the burst of pace that Foxrock patrons witnessed last month.

Joseph O’Brien said of the 5/2 shot: “He has a great attitude and all his homework has been very good. He changed his legs and when I brought him out he quickened up very well and won eased down by six lengths. He’s an exciting horse.

“You’d imagine the Dewhurst and Racing Post Trophy would be on his agenda. It’s slow ground out there. Unfortunately we got the rain the last day or so.”

Free Eagle, who prior to this race was favourite for the Epsom Derby, was the subject of a 20,000 euro bet in the ring to win 10,000. He wasn’t given a hard time by Pat Smullen when the winner streaked away. He took second, three and a half lengths ahead of KingfisherDermot Weld said of Free Eagle: “He’s a big baby and we’ll put him away for next year.”

A delighted Aidan O’Brien said of the winner: “We always thought the world of him. He doesn’t know he’s a racehorse yet. He’s very special.

“It was good experience for him today, he had to come round and pass horses. He doesn’t have to run again this year. If he doesn’t I think he’ll know enough and we’ll train him for the Classics next year.”

Australia is by Irish Derby winner Galileo and out of Epsom and Irish Oaks winner Ouija Board.

This win brought up a Leopardstown double for Aidan O'Brien.

Additional reporting by Gary Carson



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Agena knows where the winning post is

 By Michael GrahamSat 7th Sep 2013, 16:46

Agena, number 2, arrives at the winning post
Agena, number 2, arrives at the winning post
(Healy Racing Photos)
Agena, the O’Brien second-string, put his head on the line to deprive He’s No Saint in the seven furlong colts and geldings juvenile maiden in Leopardstown.

The son of Galileo was held up in second-last by Seamie Heffernan as the nine runners hit the home straight. From there he picked his way through and thundered home down the outside in the last 100 yards to win by a head at 10/1.

He’s No Saint (4/1) looked to have put away Masai with 200 yards to race, however, he was undone by the powerful finish displayed by Agena.

The O’Brien first-string, Masai, was heavily punted from 13/8 this morning down to 8/11 on the off. He made all but after a prolonged battle gave best to He’s No Saint and had to settle for third.

Winning handler Aidan O’Brien said: “He’s a nice horse. The two of them were raw horses just ready to start. Joseph’s horse (Masai) being in front wasn’t ideal and he was very green. We’ll look for a stakes race for the winner.”

Agena holds entries in the Group 2 Beresford Stakes at the end of this month and in next year’s Group 1 Irish 2,000 Guineas.

Regarding Declaration Of War who was taken out of the Irish Champion Stakes later on the card, due to the change in going, Aidan O’Brien explained: “He’s a fast-ground horse even though he has some form on softer. The plans [with him] are ground dependant.”

Joseph O’Brien, who was due to ride Declaration Of War, now rides Kingsbarns in the big race at 6.50pm.

Additional reporting by Gary Carson



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Message from my lovely Cousin who is a lucky lucky lady at the best stables on the planet 




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Gale Force Ten could run in the Woodbine Mile G1 in Canada next weekend could be a nice trial & prep for the MILE



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Ballydoyle Group runners at Leopardstown – Aidan O’Brien’s comments 
(6th September 2013)

ICON Breeders Cup Juvenile Turf Trial Stakes (Group 3)
Australia showed his inexperience on his debut but he came on well to win nicely on his second start. He’s in good form and so is Kingfisher who improved well from his first run to win easily at Killarney. The better the ground, the more it will suit both of them.”

KPMG Enterprise Stakes (Group 3)
The United States had to have a long break after his first run of the season in April, but he came back and won nicely at Tipperary last time. We’ve been happy with him since and, hopefully, the ground will be good or better as he appreciates those conditions.”

Coolmore Fusaichi Pegasus Matron Stakes (Group 1)
Just Pretending last ran over one mile when third in the Irish 1,000 Guineas. She’s in good form and, hopefully, the ground will stay good or better as that suits her best. Say has been running consistently well recently. She won over nine furlongs at the Curragh last time and while she is dropping down another furlong in trip, she is in good form. Magical Dream ran well in the Nassau Stakes last time when she didn’t have much luck in running. She’s well and if there is ease in the ground that won’t be a problem for her.”

Red Mills Irish Champion Stakes (Group 1)
Declaration Of War hasn’t done a lot since York but he’s in good form and we’re happy with him.  He is a horse with an incredible constitution as he showed at York when winning the Juddmonte International. He has won on soft but he loves fast ground so, hopefully, they won’t get much rain.
“We’ve been happy with the way Kingsbarns has been progressing since he went back into work. He’s been a long time off and is just ready to start back. We’re hoping he runs a good race.”




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Matron Stakes has a field of 12

Thu 5th Sep 2013, 11:34

Matron Stakes contender Scintillula
Matron Stakes contender Scintillula
(Healy Racing Photos)
Elusive Kate has not been declared for the Coolmore Fusaichi Pegasus Matron Stakes at Leopardstown on Saturday.

John Gosden's four-times Group One scorer had been in the frame to travel to Ireland, but connections have instead chosen to abort the mission.

A strong 12-runner field has still been declared for the Group One over a mile.

French raider Kenhope is arguably the most interesting horse in the line-up. The three-year-old filly finished second to Sky Lantern in the Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot, after which she claimed third spot behind Elusive Kate in the Prix Rothschild in July.

Aidan O'Brien saddles three runners in recent Curragh scorer Say, Just Pretending and Magical Dream, while Jim Bolger will be represented by Scintillula.

Fiesolana, trained by Willie McCreery, was supplemented for the Matron on Monday after she won the Fairy Bridge Stakes at Tipperary.

Lady Cecil sends Chigun to Ireland from her stables in Newmarket. The four-year-old filly was successful in a Group Three at the Curragh in May.

Caponata reverts to a mile after she finished second in the Royal Whip Stakes at the Curragh last month, with Wannabe Better set for a brisk return to action after she struck in Listed company at Killarney a week and a half ago.

The popular Lily's Angel has her first start in a Group One since May 2012, with La Collina still in the hat for the Kevin Prendergast team.

One Spirit was fifth behind Say in the Group Three Dance Design Stakes last week and also tries her luck at the top table.


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8 in line for Champion Stakes glory

Thu 5th Sep 2013, 10:41

Declaration Of War
Declaration Of War
(Healy Racing Photos)
Al Kazeem is among eight declarations for the Irish Champion Stakes, although rain is sure to influence the final line-up.

The five-year-old had been due to bypass the 10-furlong feature in favour of a trip to France on Sunday week but the weather forecast has prompted a potential change in plan by Charlton and owner John Deer.

Al Kazeem suffered his first defeat of this campaign when beaten into third by Declaration Of War in the Juddmonte International at York last month and the pair could clash again.

While officials at Leopardstown would love to host a second encounter between the pair, clerk of the course Lorcan Wyer admits it would appear an unlikely event as each horse requires different conditions.

"We're not sure exactly how much (rain the track will get), but they are talking from Friday midnight through to the early part of Saturday. We are maybe looking at 15 or 20 millimetres of rain," he told At The Races.

"I can't tell you what the going is going to be on Saturday, but we are good to firm at the moment and I think the whole team has produced gorgeous racing ground, it's beautiful.

"We're kind of keeping all the plates spinning in the air at the moment. We stopped watering on Tuesday given the fact of rain coming in.

"I dare say if you came and walked the track on Friday night in advance of the rain, you might find it may be quicker than ideal for some horses, so we are playing poker a little bit at the moment.

"If the rain comes, looking on the positive side, 20mm is not coming in the space of an hour and a half, it's 20mm over a sustained period of time, maybe two or three millimetres per hour. If that's the case, the track is in fabulous condition and is well able to take that volume of rain.

"To give a guide to how it may go, I'd say it may be no worse than yielding or good to soft, but that's an estimated guess.

"Unfortunately, it may be slow enough for Al Kazeem, but if it's slow enough for him, it will be too slow for Declaration Of War.

"We would love to have them all here, but that's unlikely.

"If the forecast changes dramatically, we are well positioned as we put approximately 12mm on the track on Monday and Tuesday. The track will be well receptive to maybe selected light watering, just to ensure there's no jar in the ground."

Declaration Of War has been declared along with stablemate Kingsbarns, while other big names in the line-up include Trading Leather and The Fugue.

Completing the field are Euphrasia, Parish Hall and Princess Highway.

Joseph O'Brien has been booked to ride Declaration Of War with Seamie Heffernan down to ride Kingsbarns.

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Coolmore pondering Champion options

Wed 4th Sep 2013, 19:13

Joseph O'Brien
Joseph O'Brien
(Healy Racing Photos)
Plans for Aidan O'Brien's runners in the big races at Leopardstown this weekend are set to be finalised after the trainer has spoken with the Coolmore owners.

With Roger Charlton's Al Kazeem thought likely to be an absentee, Juddmonte International winner Declaration Of War was the horse for money in the Red Mills Irish Champion Stakes on Wednesday, with Paddy Power cutting the four-year-old to 7-4 favourite from 2-1.

O'Brien also had five other possibles at the confirmation stage on Monday, including Kingsbarns, who has not run since last season's Racing Post Trophy.

Declarations for the Irish Champion and the Coolmore Fusaichi Pegasus Matron Stakes are due to be made on Thursday morning.

Speaking at Gowran, Joseph O'Brien said: "Dad will talk to the owners and finalise plans this evening.

"Declaration Of War is a definite possible as long as the ground stays quick.

"Kingsbarns is another possible. Obviously he has been off for nearly a year and it would be a massive ask.

"There is a chance Ruler Of The World will also run, but he might go to France the following week instead for an Arc trial (Prix Niel)."

He added: "Just Pretending, Magical Dream and Say are our three in the Matron. The three of them might run as long as the ground stays quick.

"I'm not sure who I will be riding in both races."

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Heirloom battles well to score

 By Gary CarsonWed 4th Sep 2013, 18:46

Heirloom gets better of Todd
Heirloom gets better of Todd
(Healy Racing Photos)
Heirloom battled gamely to land the spoils in the mile-and-a-half handicap at Gowran Park.

25/1 shot Todd cut out the running and, as has been the story of the night, the front-runner proved hard to peg back.

9/4 favourite Heirloom had to pull out all the stops to grab the leader inside the final furlong and record a length success under Joseph O'Brien.

The Ballydoyle colt was dropping back in trip here having been beaten when a short price for a 1m6f handicap at Leopardstown last time.

“I was very happy with him. He stays well and he handled the good ground,” saidJoseph O'Brien afterwards.

(Additional reporting by Donal Murphy)



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O'Brien outlines plans for Darwin & Tapestry

Mon 2nd Sep 2013, 09:57

The Solonoway Stakes at the Curragh is next on the agenda for Darwin
The Solonoway Stakes at the Curragh is next on the agenda for Darwin
(Healy Racing Photos)
Tapestry may have run her last race of the season in the Moyglare Stud Stakes at the Curragh on Sunday.

Aidan O'Brien's filly was promoted to second after being interfered with by Kiyoshi in the Group One, won by Rizeena.

Tapestry had previously struck in the Debutante Stakes in good style and was supplemented for the Curragh showpiece.

"She ran very well," said O'Brien. "As for the rest of this year, she has the option of going for the Fillies' Mile at Newmarket (September 27) or we might just leave her off for the rest of the season."

Stablemate Darwin is due to have his next race in the Group Three Solonaway Stakes at the Curragh on September 15.

The American recruit has won at Naas and the Curragh so far this season and holds entries in the QEII Stakes and the Champion Stakes at Ascot.

"The plan for Darwin is to run him in the Solonoway Stakes at the Curragh, we'll hope to step him up (in class) after that," said O'Brien.



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51 and a 1/2 to 1 4-timer for A P O’B & J P O’B

Sun 1st Sep 2013, 18:23

Victory Song beats from left to right, Tonabrocky, Cape Glory and Deep Speed
Victory Song beats from left to right, Tonabrocky, Cape Glory and Deep Speed
(Healy Racing Photos)
Much like his dad Aidan, who broke through the 100-winner mark for the campaign today, Joseph O'Brien will soon be achieving that milestone as he moved on to a score of 97 as Ballydoyle completed a four-timer with Victory Song in the concluding Unaccompanied Maiden at the Curragh.

Earlier on the mark on DazzlingGreat White Eagle and SayJoseph O'Brien got 11/10 chance Victory Song to the front three furlongs out and he stayed on well in the final furlong to account for Deep Speed (came home really well) by a length.

Cape Glory tumbled in the betting from around 7/1 earlier in the day into 5/2. However he was in trouble from over four furlongs out. To his credit he kept going to be three parts of a length off the principals.

"He's a grand big horse. He's back after a break and I was afraid that he might not be ready.

"He's got a great pedigree and he stays well," reported O'Brien senior. (GC & EM)


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Irish Champion Stakes decision coming today or tomorrow "Aidan is keeping his cards close to his chest," Declaration Of War, classy two-year-old Kingsbarns and Derby winner Ruler Of The World, Magician Camelot & Triumphant all remain in contention.




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Leopardstown unlikely for Al Kazeem

Tue 3rd Sep 2013, 20:38

Al Kazeem
Al Kazeem
(Healy Racing Photos)
A trip to Paris on Sunday week looks increasingly like the next option for Al Kazeem with fast ground set to prevail at Leopardstown this weekend.

Roger Charlton's five-year-old has enjoyed a fantastic campaign so far, completing a Group One hat-trick in the Tattersalls Gold Cup at the Curragh, the Prince of Wales's Stakes at Royal Ascot and the Coral-Eclipse at Sandown.

He suffered his first defeat when third in a fast-ground Juddmonte International at York last month and with similar conditions likely in Ireland on Saturday, the Prix Foy at Longchamp on September 15 will come under consideration.

"If you look at the weather forecast there should be some rain on Wednesday into Thursday, but I don't think a lot," Charlton told At The Races.

"It will take a lot to change the ground there, so I would say he's extremely unlikely (to run) unless suddenly we read there's a thunder storm and it's going to pour with rain.

"We'll have a look at the Prix Foy as an alternative. That is the next thing we'll look at and then we'll decide if he runs and what he does after that. It's still in the air."

Leopardstown's racing and operations manager Nessa Joyce reported a dry and bright afternoon at the Foxrock venue on Tuesday and is not expecting any significant change until Saturday itself.

Joyce said: "It's an amazing day today. It's dry, bright and warm and there are people out and about in shorts.

"Temperatures might be a little cooler on Wednesday and Thursday, but it's due to be dry. I'm told it's very unlikely we'll get any rain over the next few days.

"MET Eireann say there is something from the south east brewing that could arrive on Saturday itself, so there is a chance of some showers then, but we'll have to see.

"We are watering at the moment and we expect to send out a going report of good to firm on Wednesday morning."

Aidan O'Brien's was repsonsible for six of the 13 entries at Monday's confirmation stage.

The sextet includes Juddmonte International winner Declaration Of War, brilliant two-year-old Kingbarns and Derby winner Ruler Of The World, but Joyce is as much in the dark as anyone else about which will line up.

"Aidan is keeping his cards close to his chest," she said.

"They won't be going into any of the races half-hearted and I'm sure they'll be picking carefully which should run in the Irish Champion.

"There is also The Fugue and Trading Leather in the race. I can see those two and one of Aidan's coming up the straight together, that would be great."



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Seven Irish horses entered in Melbourne Cup

Tue 3rd Sep 2013, 10:16

Top stayer Simenon (left) is a Melbourne possible
Top stayer Simenon (left) is a Melbourne possible
(Healy Racing Photos)
Seven Irish trained horses are among the 135 possibles for this year's renewal of the Emirates Melbourne Cup to be held on November 5th.

Dermot Weld, twice successful in Australia's Premier race, has entered Pale Mimosa and Voleuse De Coeurs.

Aidan O'Brien has three entries, Ernest Hemingway, Foundry and Leading Light.

The other two Irish horses are the Willie Mullins' trained Simenon and Royal Diamond from the yard of Johnny Murtagh.

The last two winners of the Emirates Melbourne Cup, Green Moon and Dunaden, are also amongst the locally-trained entrants.


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Hardy Say best in Dance Design Stakes

Sun 1st Sep 2013, 16:07

Say beats Aloof at the Curragh
Say beats Aloof at the Curragh
(Healy Racing Photos)
With odds-on favourite Along Came Casey (4/7) under-performing it was left to Sayto bring up a treble for Ballydoyle (earlier on the mark with Dazzling and Great White Eagle) when she landed the Group 3 Dance Design Stakes at the Curragh.

Also owned by the Coolmore triumvirate, Aloof (David Wachman) made the pace here but she couldn't contain Say's challenge inside the last as the latter got up to score by a length and a quarter.

Pearl Of Africa, a three-year-old, is certainly one for the future as she finished out her race really well to come home just half a length adrift in third.

Along Came Casey came with her bid in the final quarter mile but it was soon apparent that today wasn't going to be her day and she faded to finish last of the seven.

Aidan O'Brien disclosed: "We were struggling with her trip wise but a mile or a mile and one is obviously her trip.

"In all fairness to the poor filly the trainer did everything with her and she's remained consistent.

"She was even in York last week (finished second there behind Obsession in the Listed Galtres Stakes).

"She's in the Matron and if she's not gone home by then she might run there."

P J Smullen, rider of Along Came Casey trained by D K Weld, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount ran flat.

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

(GC & EM)

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Ton up for Aidan with Great White Eagle

Sun 1st Sep 2013, 15:07

Great White Eagle gets the job done under Joseph O'Brien at the Curragh
Great White Eagle gets the job done under Joseph O'Brien at the Curragh
(Healy Racing Photos)
He beat Remember You by just over two and three parts of a length at Naas on his debut and Great White Eagle (1/3) defeated the same opponent today, this time by a margin of two lengths in the Group 3 Go And Go Round Tower Stakes at the Curragh. The victory completed an opening race double for Ballydoyle after Dazzlingin the first.

Remember You (David Wachman) is also owned by the Coolmore triumvirate as is third home Expedition and fifth place finisher Bluebell.

Aidan O'Brien's (100th winner of the campaign in Ireland) exciting Great White Eagle was waited with by son Joseph (his 95th winner of the season) before being delivered on the wide outside from a furlong and a half out.

The record-breaking breeze-up purchase soon led and there was only going to be one winner from there home as the son of Elusive Quality went on to confirm himself as one of the best juveniles we've seen in 2013.

Aidan O'Brien commented: "You'd have to be delighted with that. It was a tough race – there was plenty of pace on.

"He was trapped out wide and he had no choice but to come up the middle and it's a hard thing to do here.

"You'd have to be very happy.

"He was drawn out there – there was pace out there and it was tight.

"He followed up them up for as long as he could. He kept it safe by going wide and it's always the right thing to do.

"We'll step him up now with a choice of the National Stakes or the Middle Park and all those types of races.

"We didn't ask him to come forward and we let him coast into this race a bit.

"Next time we'll ask him to come forward a bit.

"What's good about this horse is that he has great pace and travels very strongly.

"You couldn't see him getting any further than a mile the way he travels." (GC & EM)



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Dazzling on her first start at the Curragh

Sun 1st Sep 2013, 14:35

Dazzling leads them home in the first at the Curragh
Dazzling leads them home in the first at the Curragh
Dazzling (Joseph O'Brien up), a newcomer by Galileo, lively in the market this morning before proving easy to back on track, landed the opening Sapphire European Breeders Fund Fillies Maiden at the Curragh.

This May-foaled filly is a sister to Irish 2,000 Guineas winner Roderic O'Connor, who also finished second in the Dewhurst Stakes and won the Criterium International at two. On pedigree she (a 925,000 guineas yearling) is the type to progress well as the season unfolds; her dam (Secret Garden) was unraced as a two-year-old but she made up for lost time at three, winning twice including at Listed level.

Anyway, Dazzling made most in this mile contest and despite drifting away from the rail from over a furlong out, she was able to contain her Ballydoyle stable companion, Shell House (a huge eye-catcher under Ryan Moore) by two and three parts of a length.

Strong favourite Sparkle Factor challenged down the centre of the track but she had every chance and ended up three parts of a length adrift in third.

Aidan O'Brien said: "She's still very green but you'd have to be delighted the way she did it.

"We thought she'd be very green and we weren't sure if she'd know enough to win first time but she was well on top at the line.

"We could step up anywhere now with her.

"I knew he (Joseph) wanted to get a lead but he was maybe just left in front.

"She's a big strong powerful filly – a big mile and a half type."

Boylesports go 20/1 Dazzling for the Oaks next year. (GC & EM)

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