Aidan O’Brien is gearing up to support Delacroix in his quest for a 12th triumph in the William Hill Futurity Trophy at Doncaster this Saturday. The accomplished Ballydoyle trainer has had a remarkable track record in this prestigious race, with champions like High Chaparral (2001), St Nicholas Abbey (2009), Camelot (2011), and Auguste Rodin (2022) featured in the event's history.
After leaving six contenders in the running as of Monday’s confirmation stage, it seems Delacroix has been selected as O’Brien’s primary hope, following his victory in the Group Three Autumn Stakes at Newmarket just two weeks ago.
"The horse that won in Newmarket, Delacroix, will run, and I’d say he’s probably going to be the only one," O’Brien shared during a Tuesday update at the Curragh. "He’s tough, hardy, and has been handling his racing very well. Ryan has managed him well, keeping Doncaster in mind. He’s a strong horse and copes well with softer ground conditions."
O’Brien also indicated that Delacroix may have company on the journey to Doncaster, as the impressive Naas winner Bounty is expected to participate in the William Hill Prospect Stakes on the same card.