Raceday-style gallop intended to be stepping-stone to Breeders’ Cup Classic.
City Of Troy, the exceptional son of Justify, delivered an emphatic performance during a much-anticipated racecourse gallop at Southwell, finishing well ahead of his four stablemates. With six wins from seven starts under trainer Aidan O’Brien, the gallop was designed to give the three-year-old a taste of an artificial surface ahead of his upcoming tilt at the Breeders' Cup Classic on November 2.
Although Southwell’s Tapeta track differs from the dirt surface at Del Mar, Ballydoyle ensured the experience was as close to a race day simulation as possible. They flew in American-style starting stalls for the workout, adding to the authenticity.
Really great buzz at Southwell as the gallop approaches pic.twitter.com/YM42GMtqX5
— Nick Robson (@ValueRacingPlus) September 20, 2024
City Of Troy, under jockey Ryan Moore, was paraded before an eager crowd and then walked in front of the stands before cantering to the one-mile start. He was loaded into stall three, with stablemates Congo River, Democracy, Master Of The Hunt, and Edwardian filling the other gates.
Unlike his record-breaking, front-running style in last month’s Juddmonte International at York, Moore employed waiting tactics this time, keeping City Of Troy at the back while Congo River set a solid pace. As the leaders began to tire, City Of Troy smoothly moved up, gliding past the field before the home turn and powering ahead to finish the gallop far clear of his companions.
This dominant display confirms the colt’s readiness as he gears up for the Breeders' Cup Classic, where he’ll aim to prove his world-class talent on the dirt track at Del Mar.
