Unbeaten Jancis could be joined by Vespertilio as trainer Willie McCreery seeks another triumph in the Coolmore America "Justify" Matron Stakes at Leopardstown.
McCreery previously won this Group One race with Fiesolana in 2014 and is now banking on Jancis, who has won both her starts so far. She captured a maiden race in June and then moved up to Group Three level, claiming the Brownstown Stakes the following month.
Having secured two victories at Leopardstown already, McCreery is confident about the track but acknowledges the challenge that Jancis faces at this elite level.
"She seems to enjoy Leopardstown," he said. "It’s a tough ask for her, but she’s come into her own recently. She didn’t do much as a two-year-old and was quite backwards early this year. Whatever she achieves this season will be a bonus for next year."
Vespertilio, who has experience in high-calibre races, won the Debutante Stakes and was runner-up in the Moyglare Stakes last year. However, she has struggled to replicate that form this season, finishing third in the French 1000 Guineas before lacklustre performances in the Irish version and the Prix Jean Prat over seven furlongs.
McCreery remains hopeful about Vespertilio’s prospects, though her participation isn’t yet confirmed.
"She’s likely to run and seems in excellent form," he noted during a press briefing ahead of the Irish Champions Festival. "She’s started to show improvement recently, and I’m pleased with her progress. We’ll keep her in the race until the declaration stage. She’ll work again next Tuesday, and we’ll decide then. If she doesn’t run, there’s the Renaissance Stakes at the Curragh on September 29, or we might just save her for next season."
McCreery holds his competitors in high regard, particularly Porta Fortuna, who was narrowly defeated in the 1000 Guineas at Newmarket before winning both the Coronation and Falmouth Stakes.
"Porta Fortuna is exceptional," he said. "She’s shown up in every race and always gives her best. In her last outing, she won from the front, proving her versatility. She handles all types of ground and consistently performs well."
McCreery also expressed concerns about the other top fillies in the race, noting, "Fallen Angel would be a formidable opponent if she decides to run. It’s a Group One, so every competitor poses a threat. We’ll focus on our own horses, who seem to be in good shape, and we’re looking forward to the challenge."