Donnacha O’Brien’s juvenile moves back up in distance at the Curragh.
Usdi Atohi is poised for an exciting autumn campaign as she steps up to six furlongs for the second time in Saturday's Heider Family Stables Round Tower Stakes at the Curragh. After a solid performance in Listed company at Tipperary and a respectable fifth in the Molecomb Stakes at Goodwood, trainer Donnacha O'Brien believes she is ready to tackle the Group Three contest.
Usdi Atohi was down the field behind Fairy Godmother last time but bounces back to land the Listed feature at 20/1 for Donnacha O'Brien at @tipperaryraces.
A filly by Ten Sovereigns, and consequently a fitting winner of the EURO 40,000 @coolmorestud Ten Sovereigns Tipperary Stakes! pic.twitter.com/9ORGTKeZ4i
— Racing TV (@RacingTV) July 3, 2024
Her recent run at Goodwood saw her finish close behind Celandine, the subsequent winner of the Lowther Stakes, and O’Brien feels six furlongs may suit her better, providing a clearer indication of her potential. A strong showing could set her on a path to prestigious races like Newmarket's Cheveley Park Stakes later this season.
"She ran very well at Goodwood, and the form has worked out nicely with the Lowther winner finishing alongside her," said O'Brien. "We're keen to try six furlongs again, as she might be suited to the Cheveley Park."
Usdi Atohi's connections, including American owners Barry Fowler and Steve Weston, are also eyeing a possible trip to Del Mar for the Breeders' Cup in November, should she secure a Group race victory.
O’Brien's father, Aidan, saddles the likely favourite, Ides Of March, who comes off a strong win at the Curragh. Joseph O'Brien's Rudi's Apple, dropping back in grade after contesting the Phoenix Stakes, also features in the competitive field.
Elsewhere, the promising Dreamy, a Ballydoyle-trained daughter of American Pharoah, takes the next step in her development in the Newtownanner Stud Irish EBF Stakes, with the filly being an early contender for next year’s Oaks.
