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| Sumita Pawar |
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City Of Troy, an undefeated Justify colt, is poised to defend his flawless record in the Qipco 2000 Guineas at Newmarket this Saturday. Trained by Aidan O'Brien, City Of Troy has showcased his talent with victories at the Curragh and successive wins at Newmarket's Superlative and Dewhurst Stakes. O'Brien has hailed him as the best 2YO he has ever trained.
Facing City Of Troy are 13 formidable rivals, including the Richard Hannon-trained Rosallion and Clive Cox's Royal Lodge victor Ghostwriter. Another intriguing contender is Night Raider, trained by Karl Burke, who has impressed with dominant performances on the all-weather at Southwell.
Karl Burke believes in Night Raider's potential to rise to the occasion, describing him as a horse with tremendous scope and cruising speed. Despite the tough competition, Burke is confident in Night Raider's abilities and looks forward to seeing him shine on race day.
While acknowledging the strength of the opposition, Burke remains undaunted and eager for Night Raider to showcase his talent. He is particularly wary of Rosallion's performance in France but remains hopeful for Night Raider's chances, especially if the ground remains good.
In addition to Night Raider, other contenders include Charlie Appleby's Notable Speech and Owen Burrows' Alyanaabi.
Aidan O'Brien has also entered Henry Longfellow and River Tiber, although Henry Longfellow is likely to wait for the French 2000 Guineas instead.
It was mentioned that Burke has the responsibility of Gr.1 One Thousand Guineas favorite named Fallen Angel. Additionally, Burke expressed his opinion that the winner of last season's Group One Moyglare Stud Stakes is the top pick for the upcoming classic on Sunday.
"I think they've got us to beat," said Burke. "I know Ballydoyle will give you plenty of excuses for Ylang Ylang's defeat in the Moyglare, but she's got more than 10 lengths to make up on us. On all known form, I think we deserve to be favorite."
As per the trainer's update, Fallen Angel underwent a rigorous racecourse gallop during the Craven meeting in Newmarket earlier this month. The exercise has evidently helped her improve considerably, and she seems to be in a much better shape now.
"She needed that gallop, came out of it really well and has taken a big step forward," said Burke. "She did a good piece of work again on Friday and I'm very happy with her."