The Thrill of Anticipation: City Of Troy’s Visit to Southwell Racecourse
When Southwell racecourse hosted a seven-race card three weeks ago, the turnout was modest, with only 560 spectators in attendance to watch 71 runners. Fast forward to a recent Friday afternoon, and the atmosphere was electric, with nearly 1,000 fans flocking to witness a unique event featuring just five runners. The star of the show? City Of Troy, the Derby winner, making what is likely his final appearance on a British track before heading to the prestigious Breeders’ Cup Classic.
A Star in the Making
The moment City Of Troy stepped onto the Tapeta surface, he instantly became one of the most talked-about horses to grace Southwell. The debate about where he ranks among the greats is ongoing, with contenders like Galileo, the 2001 Derby winner, and Giant’s Causeway, who narrowly missed out in the 2000 Breeders’ Cup Classic, often mentioned. However, if City Of Troy can achieve what his predecessors could not and secure a victory for trainer Aidan O’Brien in the Classic, the conversation will shift dramatically.
The buzz surrounding City Of Troy’s presence attracted a crowd that is rare for Southwell, a track typically known for its quieter events. The anticipation of witnessing a potential racing superstar just weeks before a significant race drew fans from far and wide, eager to be part of history.
A Unique Experience
The Fibresand surface, once a staple at Southwell, has been replaced by Tapeta, a change that has been met with enthusiasm. On this particular day, the track staff had prepared the surface more rigorously than usual, creating a challenging environment for the horses. An American-style starting gate was set up for the five-horse “gallop” over a mile, adding to the excitement. As City Of Troy surged ahead, finishing nearly 10 lengths clear of his competitors, the crowd erupted in cheers, a testament to the horse’s undeniable talent.
O’Brien, slightly delayed by traffic, arrived to a palpable atmosphere. “We’re very grateful to everybody here because he would have felt it,” he remarked, acknowledging the energy that surrounded the event. The excitement was not lost on City Of Troy, who entered the stalls confidently, ready to showcase his abilities.
Aidan O’Brien’s Legacy
City Of Troy will be O’Brien’s 16th runner in the Classic on dirt, a race that has historically eluded him. Previous contenders, including the likes of So You Think and Declaration Of War, have come close but ultimately fell short. The memory of George Washington’s tragic fate in 2007 still lingers, adding a layer of emotional weight to O’Brien’s quest for success on American soil.
Despite the setbacks, O’Brien remains undeterred. “We always thought he was our best chance of winning the Classic since Giant’s Causeway,” he stated, emphasizing the high expectations placed on City Of Troy. Unlike Galileo, who struggled on dirt, City Of Troy is bred for the surface, with his sire, Justify, being a recent Triple Crown winner.
The Road Ahead
As City Of Troy prepares for his upcoming challenge at Del Mar on November 2, the anticipation continues to build. His performance at Southwell has only heightened expectations, showcasing his impressive cruising speed and ability to quicken in a race. O’Brien noted, “His stride doesn’t shorten. It keeps going and going,” highlighting the horse’s remarkable athleticism.
The fans who gathered at Southwell experienced a moment they will not soon forget, a glimpse of a potential champion in the making. As the racing community looks ahead to the Breeders’ Cup, the hope is that City Of Troy will not only live up to the hype but also etch his name into the annals of racing history.
A Look at Upcoming Races
As the excitement of City Of Troy’s performance settles, attention shifts to other races on the horizon. The Ayr Gold Cup is set to take place soon, with American Affair, fresh off a narrow victory in the Portland Handicap, looking to make history. The last horse to complete this double was Lochsong in 1992, and while American Affair is a strong contender, the odds are tight.
For those seeking an each-way alternative, Tinto, a horse that has shown promise, could be significantly undervalued at odds of up to 66-1. With a decent draw and a capable apprentice jockey, Tinto may surprise many in the upcoming race.
In Newbury, Albasheer is another horse to watch, having put in a career-best performance recently. Meanwhile, Eydon, an unexposed contender in the Doonside Cup, could also be worth a bet if he can tap into his earlier potential.
As the racing season progresses, the excitement builds not just for City Of Troy but for a host of other talented horses ready to make their mark on the track. The journey continues, and the thrill of the race is ever-present.