Crystal Black has the chance to secure a Melbourne Cup spot when he competes in the Xin Gin Ballyroan Stakes at Leopardstown on Thursday evening.
Trained by Gerard Keane, the six-year-old gelding, who triumphed in the Duke of Edinburgh Stakes at Royal Ascot under Irish champion jockey Colin Keane, is being targeted for the Melbourne Cup. However, he must first navigate this group-level race, aiming to extend his four-race winning streak.
Keane commented, “He’s been phenomenal and the best horse we’ve ever had. After some initial issues, he’s become a superstar. Finishing in the top three will qualify him for Melbourne.”
The Group Three event features a field of four, with Crystal Black giving 10lb to Aidan O’Brien’s The Euphrates, the recent winner of the Marble City Stakes. Adrian Murray’s Crypto Force and Johnny Murtagh’s Safecracker also line up.
Keane added, “We’ve given him a good break, and he’s freshened up well. The 10lb weight difference with The Euphrates is a concern, but he should be able to handle the other two horses.”
In other group action at Leopardstown, the Bahrain Turf Club Desmond Stakes sees former Classic hope Ylang Ylang drop in both distance and class for Ballydoyle. After a promising start to the season, including a close second in the 1000 Guineas and a disappointing Oaks run, she returned to a mile, her preferred distance.
Joseph O’Brien’s improving Galen, with two recent victories, poses a significant challenge. O’Brien noted, “Galen has earned this step up in class and we’re excited about his prospects.”
Joseph Murphy’s consistent Lord Massusus returns to defend his title, with Breeders’ Cup runner-up Mountain Bear also in contention for Ballydoyle.