3 minute read
Aidan O'Brien will saddle a strong team at the Breeders' Cup this weekend as the likes of Auguste Rodin, Warm Heart, and River Tiber all prepare for a trip to California.
The dual Derby and Irish Champion Stakes winner has enjoyed a break since his victory at Leopardstown, with Aidan O'Brien's son of Deep Impact reportedly in good shape as he warms up to take on the likes of Juddmonte International winner Mostahdaf, and Champion Stakes scorer King Of Steel.
Speaking on a Breeders' Cup teleconference, O'Brien said: "We're very happy with him, everything has gone well. He's had a nice long lead-up into this race and it's a race we always thought would really suit him since the last day.
"Obviously Leopardstown is a flat, left-handed track and we thought and hoped it would set him up nicely for the Breeders' Cup given we've had our eye on it all year. Hopefully, everything goes well for the next few days."
However, empathic Prix Marcel Boussac winner Opera Singer will not make the trip across the Atlantic, with O'Brien opting to keep the 2024 1000 Guineas hopeful at home.
He explained: "Opera Singer had a busy enough season here,"
"After her last piece of work, she worked very well but was a little bit quiet after it. The season was long here. We just felt to be fair to her, with a few to next year, it was the best thing to do not to ask her to travel."
Paddy Power makes Auguste Rodin an 11/4 chance to land the Breeders' Cup Turf at Santa Anita on Saturday week.