Paddington sets sights on Ascot after disappointing performance at York
Paddington Set to Head Straight to Qipco Champions Day
Aidan O’Brien’s unbeaten colt Paddington suffered his first loss this season at York on Wednesday, but that won’t deter him from aiming for glory at the upcoming Qipco Champions Day.
The three-year-old has been in tremendous form, winning all of his first six races including prestigious Group One victories in the Irish 2,000 Guineas, St James’s Palace, Coral-Eclipse and Sussex Stakes. However, the Juddmonte International saw him finish third behind Mostahdaf.
O’Brien took responsibility for pushing Paddington too hard and acknowledged that it was time for a well-deserved break before preparing him for autumn competitions. Speaking from Curragh on Saturday, O’Brien reassured fans that Paddington was in good health and would return stronger than ever.
“In all fairness to him,” said O’Brien with confidence. “He’s answered every call so far and even at York he responded brilliantly.”
Highlighting Paddington’s resilience against top-class competition despite defeat twice by Mostahdaf while being ridden by Frankie Dettori,O’Brien expressed his admiration for the young horse’s character.
O’Brien plans on giving Paddington some rest before considering a potential return to Ascot where he will have various options such as competing in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes or challenging himself further in the Qipco Champion Stakes.
While O’Brien hinted that a return to a mile for the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes could be the favored choice, he acknowledged Paddington’s versatility and speed which might make him suitable for either race. The decision will ultimately rest with the owners.
“Either the Champion or the mile, whatever the lads decide,” said O’Brien. “He has loads of speed, so it wouldn’t surprise me if we opt for the mile.”
Discussing Paddington’s potential as a miler, O’Brien noted that his ability to handle longer distances may be influenced by his class rather than his natural preference. However, this remains uncertain until further discussions take place.
To conclude, Aidan O’Brien remains positive about Paddington’s future prospects and believes he has what it takes to continue excelling on the racing circuit. With some well-deserved downtime ahead and careful planning for upcoming races, fans can anticipate an even stronger performance from this talented three-year-old colt.