Aidan O’Brien reaffirmed his belief that City Of Troy is the finest horse he has ever trained after the colt shattered the track record previously held by Sea The Stars in a thrilling Juddmonte International at York.
Earlier in the day, O’Brien’s The Lion In Winter also set a record time in the Acomb Stakes, highlighting the exceptional quality of Ballydoyle's current crop.
O’Brien has consistently praised City Of Troy, noting that after his impressive win in the Superlative Stakes last year, he was performing work at home that was unprecedented for the trainer. Although City Of Troy’s run in the 2000 Guineas was disappointing, O’Brien's faith in the colt remained strong. Following Auguste Rodin’s Derby win after a similar Guineas flop, O’Brien hoped for a repeat success.
City Of Troy’s Eclipse victory, on the testing ground, didn't excite many, but he proved his class on a firmer surface in York. He faced strong competition, including Derby runner-up Ambiente Friendly, top-class filly Bluestocking, Royal Ascot winner Calandagan, and Japanese St Leger victor Durezza.
O’Brien had entered Hans Andersen as a pacemaker, but City Of Troy's quick start allowed him to take the lead. With Ryan Moore aboard, City Of Troy held his position and won by a length from Calandagan.
Looking ahead, the Breeders’ Cup Classic remains a strong possibility for the colt, who is currently 4-1 favourite with Betfair. O’Brien expressed that while a Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe bid is still a remote possibility—something Moore is interested in—America seems the more likely destination at this stage.
O’Brien praised City Of Troy’s performance, noting that his stride in the final two furlongs is exceptional. Despite some early season issues, he showed his full potential at York.
Michael Tabor, part of the Coolmore ownership group, was unequivocal in his praise: “That performance was better than anything we’ve ever seen. He never looked like getting beaten, and there’s still more to come. He’s a truly special horse, as Aidan has always said.”