Charlie Hills is sending two contenders to American soil this Saturday evening, as Ancient Rome and Khaadem aim for victory in high-stakes graded races at Kentucky Downs.
Ancient Rome will look to defend his title in the Mint Millions Stakes over a mile, with Jamie Spencer once again in the saddle. Last year, Spencer executed a perfect ride, tracking the leaders before clinching victory by a half-length over Stitched and securing a prize of £980,500.
After a lacklustre start to the season in the Wolferton Stakes at Royal Ascot, where he finished off the pace, the five-year-old bounced back with a runner-up finish in the Group Two Summer Mile Stakes at the same venue, behind Quddwah. He also crossed the Atlantic for the Arlington Million Stakes last month, where he took third place, two and a quarter lengths behind Charlie Appleby’s Nations Pride.
This time, Ancient Rome will face the formidable pairing of Aidan O’Brien and Frankie Dettori aboard Mountain Bear. However, Hills is optimistic about his charge's chances of replicating last year's success.
"He’s travelled over really well, and I’m very pleased with him," Hills said. "He’s familiar with the track, which is a big advantage. It’s a tricky course, but his form this year has been strong, even better than last year. We’ve beaten some of the competitors before, including one at the Arlington Million, so I’m hopeful for a good performance."
Khaadem, who has had a stellar season, including a repeat victory in the Group One Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot, will make his U.S. debut in the Grade Two Ainsworth Turf Sprint Stakes. Hills is confident that Khaadem’s impressive Ascot form and high rating could lead to a successful run for the £944,882 prize.
"He seems to have settled in nicely. At eight years old, it’s his first time racing in the U.S.," Hills said. "We’re pleased with his training so far, but we’ll need to see how he handles the track. The prize money is extraordinary, and he prefers fast ground, which is hard to come by in England. I believe he’s among the highest-rated in the race, which should give him a good chance."
Aidan O’Brien is also sending Greenfinch and Chief Little Rock for the high-profile card, with both horses set to be partnered by Dettori.