Ice Breeze denies Vazirabad hat-trick bid with gutsy display in Prix Royal-Oak

Ice Breeze confirmed himself one of the leading young stayers in Europe when rallying to beat Vazirabad under Vincent Cheminaud at Saint-Cloud, having looked a sitting duck a furlong and a half from home.

Khalid Abdullah's three-year-old was regarded by trainer Pascal Bary as a middle-distance prospect in the early part of the summer and he made his first start over this extended trip only when landing the Prix Chaudenay on Arc weekend in similar fashion.

"He was very brave and when Vazirabad took the advantage, he fought back, just as he did at Chantilly three weeks ago," said Bary.

The trainer had hinted after the Chaudenay that connections would have a decision to make as to whether they pursued a Gold Cup campaign at four or sent him to join the Juddmonte contingent in the US, where he might become a Grade 1 performer back over a mile and a half.

'A wonderful performance'

He added: "There’s nothing left for him this year but I hope there's plenty for him next season."

This defeat of the classy Vazirabad will certainly add to the case in favour of keeping Ice Breeze with Bary and pursuing the staying route.

"Further discussions have to be had, but it was a wonderful performance today, very tough," said Abdullah's racing manager Teddy Grimthorpe.

"The good horse [Vazirabad] came to him, so it was a good battle. As for the future, the prince will decide. We're very lucky we have some nice options for him. He's improved throughout the year, which is very pleasing."

Vazirabad was attempting to become the first three-time winner in the 150-year history of the Royal-Oak but, although Christophe Soumillon was able to draw level with his younger rival inside the distance, he could not get past.

Trainer Alain de Royer-Dupre said: "The winner is a good young horse who's relatively fresh. Vazirabad won this race at three as well, when he was the one to enjoy the weight advantage.

"He ran well but when he got to the front he stopped a little. I imagine we'll aim for Dubai with him again."

Of the visitors, the Archie Watson-trained Brandon Castle went five lengths clear of the field but was unable to sustain his challenge, while Montaly, from the Andrew Balding yard, was never able to get into the race.

The Willie Mullins-trained Renneti faired best in fourth, having just missed the break under Pierre-Charles Boudot.

Representing owners Susannah and Rich Ricci, Joe Chambers said: "Renneti couldn't go the early gallop. We wanted to be handier and he got squeezed turning for home, but I think fourth was where he was going to finish anyhow.

"I think he's quite trip-dependent on the Flat and this would be his minimum, while he'd probably prefer softer ground. He's been on the go for quite a while so might get a break now."

Prix Royal-Oak result and analysis

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