Quotes from Trainers Ahead of the Irish Champion Stakes

Roger Varian Optimistic About King Of Steel’s Chances in the Royal Bahrain Irish Champion Stakes

Trainer Roger Varian has expressed confidence in his horse King Of Steel, believing that he is now stronger than ever before this season. As they prepare for the Royal Bahrain Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown, Varian hopes that his patience will pay off with a victory.

The grey colt, owned by Amo Racing, is set to face Auguste Rodin once again over a reduced distance of 10 furlongs. While Auguste Rodin claimed victory in the Derby, he disappointed in both the King George at Ascot and the 2000 Guineas.

In contrast, King Of Steel secured wins in the King Edward VII and finished third in the challenging King George race. Recognizing that his horse had a tough run during the latter event, Varian decided to give him extra time between races rather than sending him to York.

“We’ve been delighted with King Of Steel since the King George,” said Varian. “He has matured and strengthened throughout this year. Although he may not be fully developed until next year, his performances have proved that he is more than capable of competing at this level.”

Varian also highlighted how well-prepared King Of Steel looks for upcoming races: “He looks even stronger now compared to three months ago. With winter on his back, I believe he will be even more formidable next year.”

Auguste Rodin Faces Uncertainty as He Takes on Rematch

Auguste Rodin faces some doubts heading into the Royal Bahrain Irish Champion Stakes after an underwhelming performance in recent races. However,Aidan O’Brien remains optimistic about his chances following a disappointing run earlier this season.

O’Brien explained, “We’re really happy with him. The circumstances are different this time around. It’s a mile and a quarter, quicker ground, and he has a more favorable draw compared to his previous outings. We’ve been pleased with his progress since Ascot.”

Highlighting the decision made by jockey Ryan Moore during his last race, O’Brien added, “Ryan felt that Auguste Rodin struggled early on in the previous race and didn’t want to risk any further damage. He chose to protect him rather than push too hard.”

In addition to Auguste Rodin, O’Brien also fields last year’s winner Luxembourg and Point Lonsdale for the Irish Champion Stakes.

Supplemented Alflaila Aims for Group One Success

Owen Burrows-trained horse Alflaila will be supplemented for the Royal Bahrain Irish Champion Stakes in hopes of securing another Group One victory this season.

Burrows is confident about Alflaila’s chances following an impressive performance in the York Stakes earlier this season: “Touch wood, all has gone well and he’s had a nice prep from York,” said Burrows.

Praising Shadwell Stable owners for their successful season so far with horses like Mostahdaf in the Prince of Wales’ Stakes, Hukum in the King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Qipco Stakes, as well as other prominent runners such as Al Husn,Burrows highlighted how they have maintained their top form despite recent changes within their operation.

“Alflaila goes into this race in great shape,” concluded Burrows. “We’ll see on Saturday whether or not he can continue our successful streak.”