Train of thought for Aidan O'Brien open to Lambourn contention in Voltigeur race
Lambourn, the dual Derby winner trained by Aidan O'Brien, was initially considered for the Sky Bet Great Voltigeur Stakes at York as part of his preparation for major autumn targets, potentially the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.
O'Brien had six horses confirmed for the Great Voltigeur, a traditional trial often leading to the St Leger or other big autumn races. However, in the actual race, Lambourn underperformed, finishing well down the field. Pride Of Arras, trained by Ralph Beckett, capitalized on Lambourn's misfire and won the race.
This result has raised questions about Lambourn's prospects for autumn targets, including the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe. O'Brien's initial plan positioned Lambourn as a candidate for the race if stablemate Scandinavia focuses on the St Leger. The Great Voltigeur was intended as a stepping stone toward Lambourn's preparation for such major targets.
Lambourn is set to return to competitive action in the Newbridge Silverware Royal Whip Stakes at the Curragh on Saturday. O'Brien believes that Lambourn has been progressing well and is coming back happy after a break since Ascot.
If the ground is not suitable for Scandinavia, Lambourn might be trained for the St Leger at Doncaster. Alternatively, Lambourn could go to the Prix Foy as an Arc trial or he could go to the Irish Champion Stakes as an Arc trial after the Royal Whip Stakes.
Another possible target for Lambourn is the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe in Paris. If the ground is suitable, Scandinavia might be trained for the St Leger at Doncaster, and Lambourn might not. In such a scenario, Lambourn might need a race between now and the Leger or the Arc to regain his form.
Meanwhile, Henri Matisse, another stablemate of O'Brien, will likely go for the Prix du Moulin. Scandinavia's win in the Goodwood Cup may affect Lambourn's target, as O'Brien will need to consider the best strategy for both horses.
Despite the recent setback, the aim for Lambourn has always been the Arc. O'Brien believes that Lambourn will progress a lot before the Arc, and he is expected to be a strong contender if he can regain his form.
[1] Racing Post: Aidan O'Brien considering Great Voltigeur for Lambourn [2] Sky Sports: Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe: O'Brien outlines plans for Lambourn and Scandinavia [3] Racing Post: Pride Of Arras wins Great Voltigeur Stakes [4] Sky Sports: Great Voltigeur Stakes: Pride Of Arras wins after Lambourn disappoints [5] The Guardian: Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe: O'Brien's Lambourn and Scandinavia to clash in Great Voltigeur Stakes
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