Trainer Joseph O’Brien was left weighing up Classic ambitions after James J Braddock produced a determined late charge to claim the Cashel Palace Hotel Derby Trial Stakes at Leopardstown Racecourse on Sunday.
The three-year-old colt, sent off at 9-1, showed notable resolve in the closing stages of the 1m2f contest, getting up in the final strides to deny the favourite Pierre Bonnard by a short head. The performance immediately strengthened his credentials for next month’s Derby at Epsom, with O’Brien admitting the colt had now “earned his spot” should connections decide to pursue the famous Classic.
Named after the former American heavyweight boxing champion James J Braddock, whose life inspired the film Cinderella Man, the colt appeared to relish the challenge despite earlier concerns about the quicker surface at Leopardstown Racecourse.
O’Brien revealed that the King Edward VII Stakes at Royal Ascot had initially looked the likely target, but the Leopardstown success may have altered those plans.
“We thought he would improve from his first run of the season and he certainly did,” said O’Brien. “We were a little worried about the fast ground because his maiden win came on softer conditions, but he handled it very well and showed plenty of toughness.
“We had been thinking about Ascot, but now we have to consider other options too. He’s taken a big step forward today.”
The trainer added that discussions with owner Aziz Kheir would determine whether the colt heads towards Epsom, although he believes the horse’s travelling style could suit the unique demands of the Derby course.
“I think it’s fair to say this looks an open Derby and he’s one of the contenders now after winning a trial,” O’Brien said. “He travelled strongly through the race and I think he could potentially handle the Epsom track.”
The Cashel Palace Hotel Derby Trial Stakes at Leopardstown Racecourse has long been recognised as a significant pointer towards Epsom glory. Previous winners to complete the Leopardstown-Epsom double include High Chaparral, Galileo, Sinndar and Golden Fleece.
Reigning Irish champion jockey Dylan Browne McMonagle also praised the colt’s determination after guiding him home in the closing moments.
“He’s improving with every run,” Browne McMonagle said. “The race got away from me a little turning in and I had to organise him quickly, but I loved the way he finished the final furlong. He really hit the line strongly.
“I think stepping up in distance will suit him even more. He showed a lot of class today and there should be more to come.”
The latest James J Braddock Derby Trial Stakes victory has now placed the colt firmly among the emerging names in the Derby picture, with connections expected to assess his recovery before making a final decision on his next assignment.
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