Imagine back on track

The dual-classic winner Imagine looks set to go straight to France's autumn showpiece, the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.

The dual-classic winner Imagine looks set to go straight to France's autumn showpiece, the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.

Aidan O'Brien's Irish 1,000 Guineas winner has not appeared since adding the Epsom Oaks to her collection and had been earmarked for an Arc prep-run next month.

However, O'Brien said yesterday: "Imagine is back cantering and is very well but we don't want to risk anything by rushing her. It could be that a race like the Prix Vermeille might come too soon and I wouldn't be surprised if she went straight for the Arc."

Imagine missed out on the Irish Oaks through injury but with the dual-Derby winner Galileo bound for the Breeders' Cup, the filly is widely regarded as Ballydoyle's premier hope for the traditional European highlight. O'Brien and Mick Kinane will also be in France tomorrow where Johannesburg will try to give them their third Prix Morny in four years at Deauville.

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The unbeaten colt, as low as 8 to 1 favourite for next year's Sagitta 2,000 Guineas, will have to beat the David Loder-trained July Stakes winner Meshaheer if he is emulate Orpen (1998) and Fasliyev (1999.) O'Brien reported yesterday: "Johannesburg is very well and has been fine since winning at Leopardstown. We will also run Line Rider in the race just to make sure there is a decent pace."

The Ballydoyle yard can also make an impact at Fairyhouse tomorrow courtesy of Bringontheclowns in the opening maiden. Dermot Weld can hit the double with Madamaa and Murrayfield while at Ballinrobe, the best bet could be Philip Rothwell's decent hurdler Palouse.

Brian O'Connor

Brian O'Connor

Brian O'Connor is the racing correspondent of The Irish Times. He also writes the Tipping Point column