 |
|
| Staff Writer |
 |
The stage is set for a thrilling renewal of the Gr.1 Juddmonte International Stakes at York on Wednesday, with Aidan O'Brien's Epsom Derby hero City of Troy facing perhaps the sternest test of his career to date.
The Justify colt, once hailed as "our Frankel" by connections, is looking to cement his place among the greats in this prestigious 1m2½f contest. However, he'll need to be at his brilliant best to overcome a field bristling with talent.
O'Brien, speaking from Ballydoyle, seems confident in his charge's preparation: "He seems to be in good form and everything has gone well with him since Sandown. Everyone is happy with him. We always thought York would suit him as he's a big, long-striding horse."
The Irish maestro also saddles Hans Andersen, describing him as "a solid, straightforward horse" who "seems in good form".
Yet, the weight of expectation on City of Troy's shoulders is palpable. Having suffered defeat in the 2000 Guineas and scraped home in the Eclipse, he'll need to produce a performance reminiscent of past Juddmonte International greats to silence the doubters.
Hot on City of Troy's heels is Ambiente Friendly, seeking to turn the tables on his Epsom conqueror. The Ralph Beckett-trained colt has been fine-tuned for this contest, dropping back in trip after placed efforts in both the Derby and Irish Derby.
Tim Gredley, co-owner with his father Bill, is bullish about their chances: "We're looking forward to it. We feel like we've tweaked a few things coming into this race and I think the break can only have worked in his favour."
Adding intrigue to the lineup is Bluestocking, representing race sponsor Juddmonte. The decision to tackle this contest rather than the Yorkshire Oaks speaks volumes about the filly's perceived ability.
Barry Mahon, Juddmonte's racing manager, explained the sporting decision: "It's setting up to be one of the races of the season, if not the race of the season, and great credit has to go to the owners for being so sporting."
The Juddmonte International boasts an illustrious roll of honour, including the likes of Frankel, Sea The Stars, and Baaeed. Frankel went on to dominate the racing world, while Sea The Stars completed a historic treble of 2000 Guineas, Derby, and Arc. Baaeed, unbeaten in his career, used this race as a stepping stone to Ascot glory.
However, the race has also seen its share of upsets, with champions such as Brigadier Gerard, Golden Horn, Oh So Sharp, and last year's favourite Paddington all tasting defeat on the Knavesmire.
With record prize money of US$1.59 million (£1.25 million) on offer, and a fees-paid berth in the US$7 million Breeders' Cup Classic at Del Mar in November awaiting the winner, the stakes couldn't be higher.
As the centrepiece of York's Ebor Festival, the Juddmonte International promises to be a race for the ages, potentially defining the legacy of City of Troy and crowning a new middle-distance champion.