Golden Irish Champion Looming

The G1 Irish Champion S. at Leopardstown Sept. 12 has received another unexpected boost with the news that Golden Horn (GB) (Cape Cross {Ire}) is also likely to have his next outing at the Dublin track. With Gleneagles (Ire) (Galileo {Ire}) already reportedly in the mix the much anticipated clash of this season’s star 3-year-old colts could yet happen.

Trainer John Gosden confirms Golden Horn none the worse for his shock defeat to Arabian Queen (Ire) (Dubawi {Ire}) at York on Wednesday and is very much looking forward to seeing the colt make amends.

“He’s absolutely fine. He ate up last night,” the trainer said. Reflecting on the G1 Juddmonte International Gosden added, “If we could ride the race again we’d probably do it differently, but I wish to take nothing from the winner. We’ll go to the Irish Champion with him and let’s hope it doesn’t rain too much. Leopardstown is a lovely track, it drains very well.”

Gosden also had news on his G1 Irish Derby winner Jack Hobbs (GB) (Halling). The late-season aim for the 3-year-old is the G1 Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe and Gosden is pondering a run on the all-weather at Kempton Sept. 5 to tune the horse up for the big Paris assignment.

“He could go for the G3 September S. next, as it fits in nicely with preparing him for the Arc. He’s a horse that seems to act on most ground, so that wouldn’t make any difference.” said Gosden.