Keeneland Phoenix Stakes Preview: Whistlejacket Targets Group 1 Glory at the Curragh
The prestigious Keeneland Phoenix Stakes takes center stage at the Curragh this Saturday, with a high-class field of juvenile sprinters set to do battle. Among the leading contenders is the unbeaten Whistlejacket, who will be looking to emulate his brother Little Big Bear and capture this coveted Group 1 prize.
Timeform have installed Whistlejacket as their top-rated runner, with the Aidan O’Brien-trained colt boasting a handy one-pound advantage over his nearest rivals. Jockey Ryan Moore, who guided Whistlejacket to victory in the July Stakes at Newmarket last month, is confident his mount can rise to the occasion.
“He appreciated the step back up to six furlongs in the July Stakes last month and it was nice to see the form of that race being boosted,” Moore told Betfair. “You have to respect Ger Lyons’ filly Babouche, who’s two for two, but despite showing greenness in Newmarket, my lad won well and he sets the standard here.”
Babouche, trained by Ger Lyons for Juddmonte, will be aiming to become the first filly since 2011 to land the Keeneland Phoenix. The daughter of Kodiac has already demonstrated her talent by winning the Anglesey Stakes last time out, and connections are hopeful she can make the step up to Group 1 level.
“We would love to be taking on fillies, but the race is there against the colts and it is close to home, so we will give it a good go,” said Juddmonte’s European racing manager Barry Mahon.
Another filly in the line-up is Aidan O’Brien’s Heavens Gate, who makes a swift return to action after winning the valuable Irish EBF Ballyhane Stakes at Naas earlier this month. She also brings some smart form against her own sex from Royal Ascot and Newmarket.
Bucanero Fuerte will be aiming to defend his crown for trainer Adrian Murray and owners Amo Racing, while Richard Fahey’s Shadow Army represents the British challenge.
With a mix of exciting juveniles and proven Group-level performers, the 2023 Keeneland Phoenix Stakes promises to be a memorable affair at the Curragh this Saturday.
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