Abbey heads O’Brien’s team for 2000 Guineas
O’Brien has nominated the brilliant St Nicholas Abbey, Dewhurst one-two Beethoven and Fencing Master and Viscount Nelson as possibles for the 2000 Guineas.
However, the unbeaten Cape Blanco, impressive Criterium International winner Jan Vermeer and Phoenix Stakes winner Alfred Nobel are all likely to miss the race, along with Steinbeck.
O’Brien said: “It is unfortunate that Steinbeck is going to miss the 2000 Guineas. He has done really well and we are very excited about him. Hopefully he will restart in the Abu Dhabi Irish 2000 Guineas on Saturday May 22 at the Curragh.”
O’Brien was obviously not too disheartened by the recent Leopardstown performances of Famous and You’ll Be Mine as along with Devoted To You they comprise of his team for the fillies’ Classic.
Meanwhile, Italian Classic hopeful Aldovrandi makes his British debut in the Bet At 32Red.com Conditions Stakes at Kempton today.
Cape Cross colt was just touched off on his only run to date in Italy in November and could book his ticket to the Italian 2000 Guineas with a bold show in the one mile contest.
“He’s run once in Italy and was just beaten a short head in a decent maiden in November,” said trainer Marco Botti.
