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| Staff Writer |
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Joseph O’Brien is setting his sights on a triumphant autumn with Al Riffa, who impressed with a gallant second in the Coral-Eclipse to City Of Troy. The ultimate goal for the remainder of the season is a peak performance in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.
The 4YO, a Group One winner at two, nearly upstaged the Derby victor at Sandown, finishing just a length behind with Dylan Browne McMonagle in the saddle.
Currently being given a break to rejuvenate, Al Riffa’s campaign will gear up for a return in the autumn, with a key focus on the October 3 showdown at ParisLongchamp for a chance at Europe’s premier middle-distance honor.
The precise path to the French capital is yet to be determined, but connections remain optimistic that the son of Wootton Bassett will make a significant impact in the latter part of the season.
“It was a great run, he ran a fantastic race,” said O’Brien.
“He’s pulled up well and we’re looking forward to an autumn campaign for him now, excited about what the rest of the season has in stall for him, hopefully.
“The Arc would be the plan. We have a few ideas how we get there, but nothing has been finalised yet. We will see how the horse feels and then lock in our targets from there.”