Iberia out to secure a Killavullan Stakes hat-trick for Aidan O'Brien

Killavullan Stakes (Group 3) | 7f | 2yo | RTV

It has been a while since the Group 3 Killavullan Stakes was won by a two-year-old who went on to compete at the top level the following year, but it is worth remembering Footstepsinthesand (2004) and Grey Swallow (2003) were successful here before becoming Classic winners the following season.

Aidan O'Brien has won this race 10 times since 1999, including the last two runnings, and relies solely on Iberia this time.

The son of Galileo was last seen finishing third in the Royal Lodge Stakes at Newmarket and boasts a rating of 104, which is the highest on offer in this five-runner contest.

With Ryan Moore, Donnacha O'Brien and Seamie Heffernan in action at Ascot, Wayne Lordan will take over aboard the colt for the first time.

"Iberia is a solid, hardy horse," said O'Brien. "He ran a good race to finish third in the Royal Lodge and we've been very happy with him since."

Iberia (right) bids to make it three Killavullan Stakes victories in a row for Aidan O'BrienCredit: Patrick McCann (racingpost.com/photos)

Everest out to reach Trigo summit

Ballydoyle also have strong claims of landing the Trigo Stakes (4.45) later on the card as Mount Everest attempts to make up for lost time.

The son of Galileo was a leading fancy for the Derby at the beginning of the season before suffering a setback, but showed up well on his return at Leopardstown on Irish Champions Weekend. However he was unable to build on that performance when well held at Newmarket last time.

"Mount Everest ran a lovely race on his return at Leopardstown," said O'Brien. "Maybe a mile and a quarter might be his best trip. The better the ground, the better it'll suit him."

Among his challengers is One Cool Poet, with Matthew Smith's unlikely star looking to add another victory when he tackles Listed company for the first time.

One Cool Poet has won four of his last fiveCredit: Patrick McCann (racingpost.com/photos)

The seven-year-old, who has won four of his last five starts including a €150,000 handicap on Irish Champions Weekend, has climbed from a rating of 66 to 100 in that time and Smith is hoping he can continue to progress.

He said: "We’re looking forward to seeing how he handles the step up in class. Obviously we’d have preferred if the ground was a little bit better but hopefully it won’t be too bad. He’s rated 100 now and doesn't owe anybody anything so we’re looking forward to it."

Did you know you can bet via the Racing Post mobile app/website? Simply sign in with your favourite bookmaker via the Accounts button and then bet direct from our racecards