Eldar Eldarov set to compete in upcoming Irish St Leger
Eldar Eldarov Aims for Irish St Leger Success
Last year’s St Leger champion, Eldar Eldarov, is set to conquer the Irish racing scene as he prepares to compete in the prestigious Comer Group International Irish St Leger at the Curragh on September 10. After his triumphant victory at Doncaster last year, this talented stayer will be looking to add another major title to his impressive CV.
Roger Varian, the successful trainer behind King Of Steel and Eldar Eldarov, has high hopes for both horses during the upcoming Irish Champions Festival. While King Of Steel gears up for a challenging race in the Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown on September 9, Eldar Eldarov aims to regain his winning form after a year-long hiatus.
The son of Dubawi had initially planned to participate in the Group Three Leger trial at the Curragh earlier this month. Unfortunately, unforeseen circumstances arose during transportation which led him being declared a non-runner. However, connections remain optimistic that this setback was just temporary and are confident that all systems are go for their star stayer’s bid for glory.
Chris Wall, racing manager for owners KHK Racing Ltd., shed light on what caused their previous hiccup: “He wasn’t travelling very well and we don’t know why because he’s never had that problem before… He got upset travelling and they thought rather than carry on to Ireland they would bring him home.”
The team wanted to ensure Eldar Eldarov’s wellbeing and decided it was best not take any risks by continuing with an unsettled journey. They had concerns about potential health issues such as colic while being on a ferry far from land where help may be limited.
Wall further emphasized their commitment towards competing in the Irish St Leger: “The target for him is to go to the Irish St Leger and that is very much still on the cards at the moment. He’s grand, and it’s all systems go for that.”
In addition to Eldar Eldarov, KHK Racing-owned Sakheer was also expected to participate in Haydock’s Betfair Sprint Cup on September 9. Unfortunately, due to various minor setbacks since his last race in Royal Ascot earlier this year, he won’t be ready for this particular event. However, Wall remains hopeful about seeing Sakheer back in action during the Qipco British Champions Sprint at Ascot on October 21.
Reflecting on Sakheer’s challenging season so far, Wall commented: “It’s been one of those years really where things haven’t quite gone his way… It’s a tough year at three and if you miss your slots early, which he did, then you haven’t much else and any obvious route back into things. It’s tough,but we haven’t given up on him yet.”
The racing world eagerly awaits both Eldar Eldarov and King Of Steel as they seek victory in their respective races. Fans will undoubtedly witness an exhilarating display of talent and determination from these formidable contenders.