Mathilde Texier happy to be dreaming big with Epsom hope Russian Emperor

Being an owner with Aidan O’Brien is to join as exclusive a club as any in St James’s. Entry is at the discretion of Coolmore and consists of only a few family, friends and the sort of high-powered partners who don’t need to see a price list.

Getting within the hallowed walls of Ballydoyle is one accomplishment and finding a decent horse to boot is quite another, which is why Newmarket-based veterinarian Mathilde Texier is still astounded as she recalls the chain of events which led to her being involved in live Investec Derby contender Russian Emperor.

To understand the present, we must look back a generation to the colt’s dam, Australian champion Atlantic Jewel.