O'Sullivan bidding for compensation as Baie Des Iles defends Drags crown

Prix des Drags (Grade 2)| 5yo+ | 2m6f | SSR

Baie Des Iles pulled off an extremely rare feat to win the Prix des Drags 12 months ago, handing Curragh-based trainer Ross O'Sullivan a win over Auteuil's fearsome chase course, and the grey is back in a bid for back-to-back wins.

Unfortunately for O'Sullivan and owner Zorka Wentworth, virtually a year's worth of planning was for nought as the eight-year-old mare was one of three horses eliminated from the Grand Steeple-Chase de Paris, largely because the Irish and British handicappers had dropped her such a long way from the French mark she had been given for her historic success.

Baie Des Iles flanked by Ross O'Sullivan and Katie WalshCredit: Patrick McCann

While Baie Des Iles was turned around en rotue to Paris, O'Sullivan was philosophical about events and set about preparing his stable star for the defence of her title in what is traditionally a consolation race for horses beaten in the Grand Steep.

"It was frustrating getting eliminated from the Grand Steep as that race was her target for a long time," said O'Sullivan. "But it might prove to be a blessing in disguise with Sunday's race mind. She's gone there fresh and very well and that might not have been the case had she run in the Grand Steep."

Sean Flanagan gets the call aboard Baie Des Iles for what will be his first ride in France.

Willie Mullins has enjoyed enormous success over hurdles at Auteuil and his decision to send five chasers over for the Grand Steep last month emphasised just how much he wants to win over the imposing course.

Of that quintet only eighth-placed Total Recall makes the return trip, though he is joined by Irish Grand National runner-up Isleofhopendreams.

Assistant trainer Patrick Mullins said: "Total Recall ran quite well in the Grand Steep and Danny [Mullins] thought he would improve. He's dropping in grade and, hopefully, will go well.

"It will be difficult enough for Isleofhopendreams going over French fences for the first time but he's in good form and didn't have a busy season. The trip will be on the short side and we'll be happy if he can earn some of the good prize-money."

Docteur De Ballon and Felix De Gilles after winning the Prix Jean Granel at AuteuilCredit: Racing Post / Scott Burton

Grand Steep-winning trainer Isabelle Pacault is represented by Jubilatoire, while Louisa Carberry will be hoping for better luck with Docteur De Ballon, who unseated Felix de Giles when starting to threaten in that race.

For a yard that boasts barely 20 horses the Carberrys are not short on quality and Celebre D'Allen comes into this race off the back of a promising second to the reopposing Edgeoy in May.

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