Racecourse gallop at an all-weather track the plan before Del Mar bid.
City Of Troy is gearing up for a direct shot at the Breeders' Cup Classic following his triumphant performance in the Juddmonte International at York.
The Aidan O'Brien-trained colt, sired by the legendary Justify, has solidified his status as the leading horse of his generation, despite an early setback in the 2000 Guineas. After a flawless juvenile season, City Of Troy quickly bounced back, claiming victories in the Derby and the Coral-Eclipse. His latest feat at York only further underscored his dominance, as he shattered the 10-furlong track record under the guidance of jockey Ryan Moore, fending off the French challenger, Calandagan, in a wire-to-wire victory.
Reports indicate that City Of Troy emerged from the York race in top condition. Although he is entered in several prestigious Group One races across Europe in the coming months, the focus of his connections is clear: the Breeders' Cup Classic at Del Mar in November. This race would be a historic first for both O'Brien and Coolmore, as they aim to secure their maiden victory in the coveted event on American soil.
Before embarking on his transatlantic journey, O'Brien has hinted at a final preparation on an all-weather track in Britain. Southwell, a familiar ground for O'Brien’s dirt-race preparations, and Wolverhampton have both been suggested as potential sites for a final tune-up gallop.
O'Brien stated, "It looks like City Of Troy is set to go straight to the Classic. We’re considering a gallop at either Southwell or Wolverhampton to acclimate him to a different surface before heading to America."
Coolmore's Michael Tabor also weighed in on the challenge ahead, acknowledging the difficulty of preparing a horse for such a dramatically different environment. "It's a big ask, adjusting to a new surface. Some have already pegged him at 3-1 odds, which seems quite short given the circumstances," Tabor remarked. "But winning the Classic is something we’ve come close to before with Giant’s Causeway. Perhaps this year, with the City Of Troy, we’ll finally make it happen."
