Boughey is considering a trip to Kentucky with Soprano

George Boughey is considering a trip to Kentucky with Soprano following her third-place finish in the Matron Stakes at Leopardstown on Saturday.

The daughter of Starspangledbanner, who won the Sandringham Stakes at Royal Ascot in June, had previously secured a Group Three victory in France, earning her a chance to compete at Group One level in Ireland.

Boughey believes Soprano delivered a career-best performance to secure bronze behind multiple Group One winner Porta Fortuna and Irish 1,000 Guineas champion Fallen Angel. He is now aiming to secure a top-level victory before the season ends, with a potential race in America next month.

"She’s long been on the verge of becoming a Group One filly, and I’ve been pondering her progress for much of her career," said the Newmarket-based trainer. 

"I think a change in tactics has significantly benefited her. Billy (Loughnane) gave her an excellent ride on Saturday, managing to secure a good position despite a wide draw. She might have used up some energy to get there, so I’m very proud of her and pleased to see her competing at this level again."

"Special thanks must go to Charles Eddery, who works with her every day at home and took her over to Ireland. He knows her inside out and was confident she’d perform well against some top-class fillies."

"Winning four Group Ones, like Porta Fortuna this year, is an exceptional achievement, and she was competing against a Classic winner in second place, so Soprano is holding her own with the best."

Looking ahead, Boughey noted: "She might head to Keeneland for the QEII on October 12. It’s a nine-furlong, Group One race exclusively for three-year-old fillies and offers nearly $1 million in prize money, so it’s a strong possibility for her next move."