Irish Champion Stakes(Group 1)

A field of 6 face the starter for Saturdays Group One Irish Champion Stakes, and as in previous years, Ballydoyle appear to hold most of the aces in this tactical affair.

Rip Van Winkle has long been a talking horse, but finally went some ways towards justifying his home reputation when winning the Juddmonte International at York last time. The 4-y-o dispelled any doubts about his ability to stay the 10f trip and if anything the step up from a mile appeared to benefit him.

With three O’Brien runners in the six strong field, the race is certain to prove a tactical affair,with Beethoven the likely pacemaker. While it would not be a surprise to see either the last named or stablemate Cape Blanco chase home the Rip, Henry Cecils York runnerup Twice Over looks the most likely for second place.

Summary: Rip Van Winkle can add a second Group One to his tally this season,with Twice Over the biggest threat.