IT MIGHT as well be ladies’ day in Ireland this afternoon, when Ouija Board and Alexander Goldrun attempt to recreate the intensity of their Nassau Stakes duel at Goodwood five weeks ago. The Baileys Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown makes the perfect backdrop for two mares who rarely fail to thrill.
They will not have it all their own way, however. Lurking in the shadows is Dylan Thomas, who returns after a disappointing International Stakes effort last month. The Aidan O’Brien-trained colt is reunited with Kieren Fallon, who steered him to win the Irish Derby with consummate ease.
The winners collectively of 11 championship races, Ouija Board and Alexander Goldrun enrich the Irish Champion Stakes without detracting from the accompanying Matron Stakes. This group one fillies’ prize has drawn five British runners, among them Peeress, Nannina and Flashy Wings.
The action switches to France tomorrow, when three trials for the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe have drawn stellar fields to Longchamp. The highlight is the Prix Foy, in which Pride, another talented mare, crosses swords with Hurricane Run and Shirocco.
With Hurricane Run and Shirocco hailing from the same stable, the race may prove something of a phoney war. Nevertheless, the meeting of Europe’s two outstanding older horses is a tantalising prospect.
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Three of the six engaged in the Prix Niel hail from Britain, including Youmzain, who bypassed the St Leger for this 12-furlong prize. Rail Link, another with designs on the Arc, heads the home defence.