"International Intrigue: Japan, France, and O’Brien’s Finest Collide at York"
Derby and Eclipse winner facing stern Juddmonte International test.
City Of Troy Leads Star-Studded Field for Juddmonte International at York
City Of Troy, the standout contender from Aidan O'Brien's stable, headlines an exceptional field of 17 horses for what promises to be one of the most thrilling races of the season—the Juddmonte International at York on Wednesday. The Derby and Eclipse-winning colt is set to face his toughest competition yet, as the race draws a mix of top-class older horses and rising stars from the Classic generation.
Aidan O'Brien's lineup for the race is formidable, with City Of Troy joined by stablemates Continuous, Hans Andersen, and Los Angeles. Each horse in O'Brien's contingent has shown impressive form, but it is City Of Troy who carries the weight of expectations as he takes on new rivals in this prestigious event.
Adding to the international flavor of the race is a strong challenge from France. Calandagan, who dazzled spectators with a stunning performance at Royal Ascot under the guidance of Francis-Henri Graffard, will be a serious contender. Another French entry, Zarakem, trained by Jerome Reynier, is also in the mix, coming off a runner-up finish in the Prince of Wales's Stakes.
The Juddmonte International will also see a rare and exciting entry from Japan. Durezza, the Japanese St Leger winner, marks Japan's first entry in this race since Zenno Rob Roy's near-miss in 2005. Durezza's participation brings an added layer of intrigue, as Japanese horses have often been competitive on the international stage.
The field is further strengthened by top filly Bluestocking, who remains a possible contender, and Derby runner-up Ambiente Friendly, who looks poised to excel with the slight drop in trip. Owen Burrows' Alflaila, a three-time Group race winner at York, also presents a serious threat, as does Clive Cox's Ghostwriter, who was not far behind City Of Troy in the Eclipse.
With horses like Maljoom, Israr, Docklands, and Royal Rhyme available at long odds, the depth of talent in this year's Juddmonte International is undeniable. Even at these prices, these horses cannot be overlooked in what is shaping up to be a fiercely competitive race.
White Birch is another intriguing name on the list of potential runners. The four-year-old, who hasn't raced since defeating Auguste Rodin in the Tattersalls Gold Cup in May, faces a crucial test on Friday that will determine whether he lines up at York or heads straight to the Irish Champion Stakes. White Birch missed both the Prince of Wales's Stakes at Royal Ascot and the Eclipse due to health concerns but has reportedly recovered well.
Assistant trainer George Murphy, speaking on the Nick Luck Daily Podcast, expressed optimism about White Birch's condition: "He's in very good form. He's due to have a piece of work tomorrow, Colin Keane will ride him, and we'll have a chat with the owners after that to decide whether he goes to York or straight to the Irish Champion Stakes."
Murphy added, "There are a few other races we are considering, so the next couple of days will be crucial in mapping out his summer and autumn campaign. He had three races very close together, so the break probably did him some good. We're focused on some exciting races towards the end of the year."
As the Juddmonte International approaches, anticipation is building for what promises to be a captivating showdown at York. With such a strong lineup of horses, the race could very well be the highlight of the racing calendar, offering fans a chance to witness some of the sport's brightest stars in action.
"The Arc is definitely still an option and it's fairly high up on the list, but there's the Irish Champion Stakes, the Arc and the English Champion Stakes as well so there's plenty of options.
"We'll know a little bit more in the coming few days. He's in good shape and whatever will be will be."