It was January weather on the gallops at Ballydoyle on Monday, but the first Saturday in June was the focus of all thoughts as many of Aidan O’Brien’s stable stars, including City Of Troy, the colt with a lofty reputation to redeem after his no-show in the 2,000 Guineas, went through their morning exercise routine in the run-up to the Derby at Epsom.
City Of Troy was pushed out to 8-1 for the Derby after he beat only two of his 10 rivals to the line at Newmarket this month, shattering the aura of invincibility that had surrounded him after an unbeaten juvenile campaign. But he has since edged his way back to the top of the market and there has been a similar journey of shock, reflection and then renewed confidence for his trainer.
