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| Staff Writer |
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Aidan O'Brien's star colt City Of Troy is set to face a formidable field in Wednesday's Gr.1 Juddmonte International, the opening day highlight of York's prestigious Ebor festival.
The Epsom hero, who bounced back from his 2,000 Guineas flop with a brilliant Derby triumph followed by Coral-Eclipse success, aims to join an elite group of colts to land both the Derby and Juddmonte in the same season. Australia, Sea The Stars, and Authorized have achieved this feat this century.
Up to 15 rivals could line up against City Of Troy, including Derby runner-up Ambiente Friendly and the talented older horse Alflaila, recent winner of the York Stakes over course and distance.
Shadwell looks set to field a strong hand, with both Alflaila and Israr aiming to give the operation a third consecutive win in the race.
The Aga Khan's Calandagan, impressive at Royal Ascot, could spearhead a two-pronged French assault alongside Jerome Reynier's Zarakem. Japan's Durezza adds further global intrigue to the contest.
Reynier said of Zarakem: "The plan is to run and Maxime [Guyon] will be on board again. He showed with his win in the Prix d'Harcourt and his runner-up effort at Ascot that he has the right to be running in this company."
The Juddmonte International, first run in 1972, has a rich history of producing champions. Notable recent winners include Ghaiyyath (2020), Roaring Lion (2018), and the mighty Frankel (2012).
City Of Troy's connections will be hoping he can add his name to this illustrious roll of honour, cementing his place among the greats of the turf.
While all eyes will be on City Of Troy, the Juddmonte could also play a crucial role in shaping the autumn campaign for several contenders. For Zarakem, it's a stepping stone towards a tilt at the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.
As the countdown to York continues, racing fans are salivating at the prospect of a truly international clash on the Knavesmire.