Phoenix Stakes: Participants and contenders

Porta Fortuna Aims to Upset the Colts in Keeneland Phoenix Stakes

Making waves at Royal Ascot, Porta Fortuna is now ready for her next challenge. Trainer Donnacha O’Brien believes that this filly has what it takes to give the colts a run for their money in Saturday’s Keeneland Phoenix Stakes at the Curragh.

After winning a maiden race at Curragh and a Group Three at Naas earlier this year, Porta Fortuna completed an impressive hat-trick by triumphing in the Albany Stakes during the prestigious meeting under jockey Frankie Dettori.

While there was an option to keep her against fillies in the Lowther at York later this month, O’Brien decided to take on tougher competition and go after Group One glory by entering her against colts.

O’Brien confidently stated, “She’s already proven herself by winning two Group races – two Group Threes. So now it’s time for her to step up and take on a Group One challenge.”

The talented filly is showing excellent form and performing well during training sessions. With anticipation building up, all eyes will be on Oisin Murphy as he takes over from Dettori as Porta Fortuna’s rider.

Aidan O’Brien Seeks 18th Phoenix Stakes Success

Veteran trainer Aidan O’Brien aims for his remarkable 18th victory in the Phoenix Stakes but has made some interesting decisions with his entries. He chose not to include his undefeated Coventry Stakes winner River Tiber and instead relies on Railway Stakes second-place finisher Unquestionable and third-place finisher His Majesty.

Bucanero Fuerte, who secured victory in the Railway Stakes and finished third in the Coventry Stakes, presents a strong challenge from Adrian Murray’s yard. Jessica Harrington’s Givemethebeatboys, who placed fourth in the Coventry Stakes, is also expected to be a contender.

The field is highly competitive with several closely matched horses based on ratings. Donnacha O’Brien commented, “It’s an open race with three or four contenders that could potentially win it. It promises to be an exciting showdown.”

Phoenix Stakes Runners and Riders

1. Bucanero Fuerte – Trained by Adrian Murray / Ridden by Kevin Stott
2. Givemethebeatboys – Trained by Jessica Harrington / Ridden by Shane Foley
3. His Majesty – Trained by Aidan O’Brien / Ridden by Seamie Heffernan
4. Unquestionable – Trained by Aidan O’Brien / Ridden by Ryan Moore
5. Gaenari – Trained by Diego Dias / Ridden by Gavin Ryan
6. Launch – Trained By Adrian Murray/ Ridden By Gary Halpin
7. PORATA FORTUNA- trained bj DONNACHA o’bRIEN/RIDDEN BY oISIN mURPHY