Japanese media also keeping an eye on Aidan O’Brien’s Breeders’ Cup Classic favourite.
City Of Troy, the Justify colt and current highest-rated turf horse in the world, drew an enthusiastic crowd at Southwell on Friday as he went through his paces ahead of his anticipated run in the Breeders' Cup Classic. Among the 700 spectators was William Derby, York's chief executive and clerk of the course, attending for both personal and professional reasons. Having seen the colt claim victory in the Juddmonte International earlier this year, Derby was keen to witness the latest stage of City Of Troy's preparation for the prestigious race at Del Mar.
"I'm pleased to be here, I can't believe how many people are here," Derby commented. "We were thrilled with the way he won the Juddmonte, and now he's the highest-rated turf horse in the world. It will be amazing if he can win the Classic after dominating on turf—it would be a real game changer."
For Marie Mishima, a reporter from Tokyo TV, the event offered an opportunity to combine work ahead of the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe and see one of Japan's biggest rivals for the Breeders' Cup. With Forever Young, the third-place finisher in the Kentucky Derby, Japan has a strong chance in the Classic, but City Of Troy has garnered considerable interest. "City Of Troy is very famous in Japan as he won the Derby," Mishima explained, reflecting the global intrigue surrounding the event.
Though none of the Coolmore 'lads' were present, Paul Smith, son of Derrick Smith, was on hand to observe the City Of Troy's progress. "Southwell has done a great job putting this on, and there is a great turnout," Smith said. Reflecting on the colt’s journey since his disappointing run in the 2000 Guineas, Smith remained confident, stating: "He conquered all, and we are looking forward to the next challenge."
The event was not without its logistical hiccups, as Aidan O'Brien, the legendary trainer overseeing City Of Troy's preparation, was delayed en route from East Midlands Airport. Once arrived, he delivered his final instructions before the horses entered specially constructed American-style stalls.
As the City Of Troy powered clear of his stablemates in the final two furlongs, the crowd broke into respectful applause, albeit with some scepticism. "I'm not sure he beat that much!" one fan remarked, perhaps noting the lack of formidable opposition. Nevertheless, the day’s experience, meticulously designed to simulate the conditions of the Breeders' Cup Classic, provided invaluable preparation for both horse and spectators.
City Of Troy, whose impressive pedigree and recent form have solidified him as a top contender, will now look to translate his turf success to the dirt in California. Should he succeed, it would not only affirm his versatility but could also change the landscape of international racing.
