City Of Troy to Face Stiff Competition in Juddmonte International at York

City Of Troy, fresh off victories in the Derby and Eclipse, will face a formidable field of 12 rivals in the Juddmonte International at York on Wednesday, as he looks to extend his Group One winning streak on the Knavesmire.

The high-profile race will see the Ballydoyle-trained star take on a strong lineup, including stablemate Hans Andersen, also trained by Aidan O’Brien. Despite City Of Troy being the hot favourite, the competition is set to be fierce.

Among the challengers, Derby runner-up Ambiente Friendly will be dropping down to 10 furlongs in a bid to test his mettle against the top contenders. Clive Cox’s Ghostwriter, who finished just two lengths behind City Of Troy at Sandown, will also be gunning for glory and looking to avenge that previous defeat.

The French challenge is led by Francis-Henri Graffard’s King Edward VII Stakes winner, Calandagan, who is joined by Jerome Reynier’s Zarakem. Additionally, Japanese St Leger winner Durezza will make his UK debut, adding an international flair to the race.

Not to be overlooked, the only filly in the race, Ralph Beckett’s Bluestocking, comes into the race with impressive form. The four-year-old has demonstrated her prowess over a mile and a quarter, winning the Middleton Stakes at York by six lengths, then securing a Group One victory in the Pretty Polly before finishing behind Goliath in the King George.

Beckett expressed confidence in Bluestocking’s prospects, stating: “It wasn’t really a difficult decision. The owners (Juddmonte) were keen and I didn’t have a problem with it. There’s a drop of rain forecast in the next 48 hours and it all made sense. She was good over a mile and a quarter at the Curragh, so there are no concerns there.”

Also in contention are Owen Burrows’ Alflaila, a York specialist with victories in the Strensall Stakes and York Stakes, along with Maljoom, Israr, Docklands, and Royal Rhyme, who complete the high-class lineup.

White Birch, who recently triumphed over Auguste Rodin in the Tattersalls Gold Cup at the Curragh, will not be participating in the Juddmonte International. Instead, the Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown is now the planned target for the talented colt.

In the Tattersalls Acomb Stakes, Ruling Court and The Lion In Winter, both considered ante-post favourites for next year’s Derby, will look to maintain their unbeaten records in a competitive field of 11.

As City Of Troy prepares for what promises to be a thrilling contest, all eyes will be on York to see if the Derby and Eclipse hero can add another prestigious title to his growing collection.