French duo fancied for Derby spoils
Wednesday, 15 June 2005 10:49The French look likely to dominate this years Budweiser Irish Derby, which takes place at the Curragh on Sunday week, with a strong team expected to challenge for the E1.3 million prize.
Recent French Derby runner up Hurricane Run is likely to start favourite for the 140th running of the race which also celebrates the 20th year of sponsorship by Anheuser-Busch.
"The horse is very well and the plan is to run in Ireland," said a spokeperson for trainer Andre Fabre, who previously won the race with Winged Love in 1995.
Opposition could include Epsom Derby runner up Walk in the Park with trainer John Hammond stating that the colt is a possible starter with a final decision being made early next week. Both horses will attempt to become the first French trained winner of the race since their sire Montjeu won the race in 1999.
Trainer Clive Brittain is set to supplement Bahar Shumaal at a cost of ¤95,000. "He worked well yesterday and I am very pleased with him," said the Newmarket based handler of the son of Dubai Millennium.
"He has progressed well since his Sandown success and I expect that we will supplement him on Tuesday."
