Leopardstown outshines Curragh with Champion action

The third edition of Irish Champions Weekend could hardly be faulted for drama and excitement. The Irish Champion Stakes lived up to its billing as a star-studded contest, a Group 1 of formidable depth. First-class credentials were on the table, and with any luck future events will consolidate the form.

It is important to remember that what has happened beforehand represents only half the picture. Races such as this largely derive their significance from how the protagonists do afterwards. The winner Almanzor is assuredly a brilliant colt, but a sense of perspective is also required. It is possible he is not even the best three-year-old in his trainer's yard, a distinction for which he will compete with unbeaten filly La Cressonniere.

The Matron Stakes was another superb contest. The prestige and international appeal of this event can only benefit from a race in which Ballydoyle's Alice Springs swept to an imperious victory over the previously unbeaten Persuasive from Britain, and Qemah, a dual Group 1 winner from France.