Often such a key trial for the St Leger in September, the Group 2 Great Voltigeur Stakes takes place next Wednesday, 21st August, and 23 are still in contention to take their part in the contest. Run over 1m4f at York’s Ebor meeting, the race is traditionally run three-and-a-half weeks before the final Classic of the season, with Continuous claiming both races for Aidan O’Brien last season.
The story from this week came in the form of a supplementation, as Irish Derby hero Los Angeles was entered at a cost £20,000 at this late stage to join the fray. The son of Camelot battled hard for victory at the Curragh, and would have to carry a 5lb penalty, but has plenty of the requisite stamina for this test and the St Leger.
Previously chief among the Ballydoyle contingent was Illinois. He has already won over 1m6f in the Group 2 Queen’s Vase at Royal Ascot and was most recently seen finishing second at the top level at Longchamp in the Grand Prix de Paris. He is evidently learning with experience and could play a leading role.
O’Brien, as ever, is not short-handed, with three others still in the race, albeit all outsiders. Chief Little Rock did claim the Group 3 Gallinule Stakes earlier this season, but was well-beaten at Royal Ascot, while The Equator‘s overall form profile looks short of this level. Euphoric is now used to pacemaking duties.
Among the better hopes for the hosts is the fast-improving King’s Gambit, who Harry Charlton may send up in trip. He has been runner-up on his last two starts, though was unlucky in doing so in the Hampton Court Stakes at the royal meeting, and contested strong company against older horses last time out. Derby fourth Deira Mile and the Wathnan-owned Space Legend are the others hoping to fight off the O’Brien brigade.
Great Voltigeur Stakes Runners 2024
| Number | Horse | Trainer |
| 1 | Los Angeles | Aidan O’Brien |
| 2 | Illinois | Aidan O’Brien |
| 3 | Chief Little Rock | Aidan O’Brien |
| 4 | Deira Mile | Owen Burrows |
| 5 | Euphoric | Aidan O’Brien |
| 6 | King’s Gambit | Harry Charlton |
| 7 | Space Legend | William Haggas |
| 8 | The Equator | Aidan O’Brien |
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