City Of Troy Set for Southwell Gallop as Breeders' Cup Classic Beckons

City Of Troy, the dazzling Derby and Eclipse winner, is set to make a highly anticipated appearance at Southwell on September 20 as part of his preparation for the Breeders' Cup Classic. Fresh from his commanding victory in the Juddmonte International at York, where he shattered Sea The Stars’ long-standing course record, the son of American Triple Crown winner Justify is poised to take on the world’s best in the Breeders’ Cup at Del Mar.

Aidan O’Brien and his Coolmore partners have never concealed their lofty ambitions for City Of Troy, whose pedigree and performances make him a natural contender for one of the most prestigious races on the global calendar. As part of a meticulously planned campaign, the Ballydoyle maestro will put his star colt through his paces at Southwell, where the colt will experience a simulated race-day environment.

Chris Armstrong, representing O’Brien at Navan, confirmed the plans: “City Of Troy will go to Southwell on September 20 for a racecourse gallop. We’re delighted that Southwell have been able to accommodate us, and this fits perfectly into his schedule.”

The session will mimic American race conditions, with starting stalls and a team of stablemates joining City Of Troy for the workout. The gallop, over a distance of about a mile, will take place on Southwell's Tapeta surface, a track O’Brien has trusted before with his Breeders' Cup hopefuls.

Southwell has played host to some of O’Brien’s most famous names, including Giant’s Causeway and Galileo, both of whom prepped at the Nottinghamshire venue before their own Breeders’ Cup appearances. Mark Clayton, Southwell’s executive director, expressed his excitement at welcoming City Of Troy: “We are absolutely delighted to have Aidan O’Brien bring one of the world’s leading horses to Southwell. It’s a testament to our track and team, and we’re chuffed to be part of his preparation for the Breeders’ Cup.”

The public and media will be allowed to witness the gallop, providing a rare opportunity to see one of the sport's rising stars up close. While finer details are yet to be confirmed, the event is expected to draw significant attention as racing fans eagerly anticipate City Of Troy’s next big test on the world stage.

As O’Brien’s team meticulously plans every aspect of the day, City Of Troy’s gallop at Southwell promises to be a momentous occasion, one that will serve as a critical stepping stone towards potential glory at Del Mar in the Breeders’ Cup Classic.