Youmzain set for Thomas clash

Connections of Youmzain are looking forward to his run in the Tattersalls Gold Cup at the Curragh on Sunday.

The Sinndar colt proved most progressive last year, winning the Great Voltigeur Stakes before finishing second to subsequent Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe winner Rail Link in the Prix Niel.

Youmzain rounded off his campaign with a Group One success in Germany and finished third in the Dubai Sheema Classic on his first start of the year back in March.

While another big performance is anticipated, Rabbah Bloodstock’s director of racing Bruce Raymond has great respect for Sunday’s opposition which includes the Aidan O’Brien-trained Dylan Thomas.

He said: “He goes there with a good chance. Dylan Thomas looks the one to beat but on his day Youmzain is certainly capable of winning a race like this.

“His preparations have gone fine, although he is not an exuberant worker at home. But Mick (Channon) is positive about the horse and it is fair to say that significant rain would be in the horse’s favour,” he told www.rabbahbloodstock.com.

Youmzain and Dylan Thomas feature among a nine-strong line-up, which also includes Arch Rebel, Fracas, Heliostatic, Mustameet, Notnowcato, Nightime and the John Oxx-trained Danak.

The last-named takes a big step up in class but will be defending a five-race unbeaten record in the Group One event.