Flying Five and Matron Stakes on the agenda during Irish Champions Festival weekend.
Connections of Believing is optimistic that the talented four-year-old can finally secure a coveted Group One win when she lines up in the Flying Five Stakes at the Curragh later this month. Trained by George Boughey, the daughter of Mehmas has come agonizingly close to landing top honours this season, most recently finishing just three-quarters of a length behind Bradsell in the Nunthorpe Stakes at York, despite a less-than-ideal draw.
Before her Nunthorpe run, Believing narrowly missed out on victories in both the King Charles III Stakes and Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot. However, she did secure Group Two success in the Sapphire Stakes at the Curragh, and her connections are eager for her to return to the same track in pursuit of Group One glory.
Harry Herbert of Highclere Thoroughbred Racing, who owns Believing, is excited about a potential rematch with Bradsell in Ireland. "It was close enough anyway, and seeing where she came from to get there was a wonderful performance," Herbert said, highlighting her impressive finishing speed. He is hopeful that, on a more favourable track, Believing can be highly competitive once again.
Herbert also praised the filly's resilience, noting how busy her season has been—starting in Hong Kong and including multiple appearances at Royal Ascot. "She's an extraordinary animal and giving everyone a lot of fun," Herbert added. He remains cautiously optimistic, hoping the ground conditions in Ireland will be favourable for Believing to claim her elusive Group One win.
Soprano Eyes Group One Success in Matron Stakes
Another exciting prospect for Highclere Thoroughbred Racing is Soprano, who is set to compete in the Coolmore America "Justify" Matron Stakes at Leopardstown, just a day before Believing’s Curragh run. Also trained by Boughey, Soprano has already enjoyed a successful season, having won at Royal Ascot and most recently clinching a Group Three win at Deauville.
The daughter of Starspangledbanner demonstrated a new style of racing in France, with jockey William Buick sending her to the front early—a tactic that paid off as she finished three lengths clear of her rivals. "What we learned in France is that we won't be afraid to ride her prominently," said Herbert. The team is confident that Soprano's ability to race closer to the pace will enhance her chances of Group One success in Ireland.
Both Believing and Soprano head into their respective races in excellent form, with their connections hoping these top-class fillies can deliver standout performances on the international stage.
