With high expectations once again, City Of Troy is set to showcase his talent in Wednesday’s prestigious Juddmonte International at York.
Trainer Aidan O’Brien and the Coolmore team have been vocal about their admiration for the son of Triple Crown champion Justify. O’Brien has called him the best horse he has ever trained, while Michael Tabor compared him to the great Frankel following his Dewhurst win last year.
City Of Troy overcame a disappointing run in the 2000 Guineas—an outcome for which O’Brien took full responsibility—to secure a stylish victory in the Derby, restoring his career momentum. Although his performance in the Eclipse was more workmanlike, O’Brien attributed this to the soft ground at Sandown. However, the conditions at York should suit him better, with the track’s long home straight ideal for his long stride.
This year’s Juddmonte International boasts the largest field since the race's inception in 1972, featuring top three-year-olds, older horses from across Europe, the high-class filly Bluestocking, and a Japanese St Leger winner.
“We’re pleased with how he’s been since his last race,” said O’Brien. “This race has been our target for him, and everything has gone according to plan. The weather looks favourable, and York’s long straight should suit him well.”
O’Brien also noted, “City Of Troy has been exceptional throughout. His performances have been driven by raw ability. We felt he was still maturing in the Derby, and the time between Sandown and York has allowed us to make some adjustments.”
James Fanshawe’s Ambiente Friendly, who finished second to City Of Troy in the Derby, went on to the Irish Derby where he was outstayed by Los Angeles. Ambiente Friendly will run in the Great Voltigeur this week as a prep for the St Leger.
Jockey Robert Havlin believes Ambiente Friendly will benefit from a drop back to 10 furlongs. “If you stopped both Derbys at the two-furlong marker, he would likely be the only one still moving comfortably,” Havlin said. “I’m looking forward to this race as it promises to be one of the season’s highlights.”