Owner Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum includes two contenders in the Qipco Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown – where Madhmoon along with Elarqam will sport his famous blue and white silks.
Possess the colours been transported to victory in Saturday’s race not since John Gosden’s Muhtarram provided him with a second win at the race 1993.
At the Elarqam, that was third at the Juddmonte International at York along with Derby runner-up Madhmoon , he has two chances that are realistic.
His racing director Angus Gold explained:”We clearly already had a single legitimate competition for the race in Madhmoon, however Sheikh Hamdan and (coach ) Mark (Johnston) possibly felt it would be a lengthy time between races when we waited for the English Champion with Elarqam, and who knows what might happen between now and then?
“I was quite impressed with Elarqam at York, and when we’d ridden him a bit handier I do not think he’d have been far away.
“The leading two hastened off – he was a bit farther back than perfect and did not get a clear run. He might have gone close if things had been different, although I’m not saying he’d have won for that.
“(Trainer) Kevin (Prendergast) is quite satisfied with Madhmoon, which is the evident race for him. Personally, I think a mile and a quarter is going to end up being his very best trip, but I know (jockey) Chris Hayes believes he could end up back in a mile.
“I think it’s very tough to select between the both of them. I think Madhmoon might have greater speed than Elarqam, and is possibly the horse – but whether he is a better horse or not, it is tough to say”
Experienced coach Prendergast is seeking his first win at the race and informed irishchampionsweekend.ie:”I couldn’t be happier with the form he’s in. As for his excursion, together with his form in the Classics this season, it could be difficult to say – but surely 10 furlongs will not be a issue.
“The race the last day served its purpose. It was good to see him fall back to a mile and reveal the pace to triumph over that excursion. I really don’t think approaches will matter ”
The filly Magical appears to have a consistent profile, although aidan O’Brien contains four runners, including Derby hero Anthony Van Dyck – that she only sadly keeps trickling into Enable.
“We’ve been really satisfied with Magical because she ran at York,” said O’Brien.
“The plan was to go to York, then go to the Irish Champion – and when all works well, then go to the Arc. We’ve been really happy with her since, and she came the race out very well.
“Anthony Van Dyck is in great order. His final series was a non-event, because they probably went somewhat quick and the floor was a bit soft.”
Hunting Horn and Magic Wand represent Ballydoyle.
Roger Charlton’s Headman has since won two Group Twos in France this summer and was improving at a rate of knots.
“It is a significant jump up in class, but I’ve been pleased with all the horse,” said Charlton.
“It is actually the only real race to operate in, since there are no longer three-year-old-only races – and won 2 Group Twos, there’s not any point giving weight away in another Group Two.
“I don’t think either of the French races appropriate him. I believe the course and the race’s kind will probably fit him better, and also I think there is a faster surface exactly what he wants.
“I presume there will also be a better pace, and they will not go as they did in France last time out. He is a horse, and you also do not wish to be breaking that stride.
“I think that horse is one for the near future, and I’m sure he will keep improving. I think he’ll be better a year ago.”
Adding additional spice to the race is – .
“I sat on Tuesday, and that I felt super, but it’s a really very good race,” said Murphy.
“I believe Magical looks the one to beat, no doubt, but she goes there with a great chance.
“In Goodwood she had been back to her best, after she would run disappointingly in her British debut at Ascot – so we will see what she’s made from.”

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