Almanzor denies Found in Irish Champion; Alice Springs back to best in Matron

French Derby (G1) hero Almanzor uncorked a devastating rally from the rear to collar Found in a vintage Irish Champion (G1) Saturday at Leopardstown.

Trained by Jean-Claude Rouget and ridden by Christophe Soumillon, the 7-1 chance earned a spot in the Breeders’ Cup Turf (G1). But connections have a more pressing decision to make – stick to his comfort zone of 10 furlongs for the October 15 Champion (G1) at Ascot, or try him over 12 furlongs in the October 2 Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe?

Aidan O’Brien’s Found, who was finishing second in this race for the second straight year, is reportedly Arc-bound. Her younger stablemate, six-time Group 1 star Minding, was further back in third after a difficult trip. New Bay fared best of the older males in fourth.

The biggest disappointment of the race was dual classic winner Harzand, only eighth as the 2-1 favorite. The Aga Khan homebred was reportedly struck into early in the race, so perhaps his performance wasn't as bad as it first looked.

 

O’Brien was able to celebrate one big win, on an otherwise tough day at the office, when Alice Springs zoomed from last to dominate the Matron (G1). Although a “Win and You’re In” for the Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Turf (G1), the trainer indicated that her Santa Anita target could be the Mile (G1).