Aidan O’Brien plans a crucial workout for City Of Troy at Southwell on September 20 as a final prep for the Breeders’ Cup Classic. The son of Justify has excelled on turf, winning the Derby, Eclipse, and Juddmonte International, and is set to step up to dirt for the Breeders’ Cup at Del Mar.
O’Brien chose Southwell’s Tapeta surface for the workout to simulate a transition from turf to dirt without the full jump. The gallop will be intense, aiming to gauge City Of Troy’s readiness.
O’Brien, who has previously struggled in the Breeders’ Cup Classic, hopes City Of Troy’s aggressive style will suit the American track. The trainer believes the colt’s combative nature will benefit him but acknowledges the challenge of adapting to the different surfaces and conditions.
City Of Troy’s Breeders’ Cup run may be his final outing before retirement to stud, given his exceptional qualities and unique profile.