WHILE it’s difficult to find a negative in Gstaad’s chances in the Tattersalls Irish 2000 Guineas, it is interesting to note that Aidan O’Brien hasn’t enjoyed the strongest record in this particular irish classic over the past 10 years.

Churchill and Paddington have been Ballydoyle’s only winners during that period, during which the British have won four renewals. Charlie Appleby, who took the 2022 running with Native Trail, is responsible for Gstaad’s nearest market rival in Distant Storm.

Another piece of trivia is that Distant Storm’s dam is the only progeny of the late George Washington. The brilliant 2000 Guineas winner was beaten by Jeremy Noseda’s Araafa on heavy ground in the Irish 2000 Guineas, and was found to be injured after the race.

Distant Storm, meanwhile, has to bounce back from his disappointing seasonal return at Newmarket, when he finished eight lengths behind Gstaad in third. Appleby sees plenty of reasons why the Night Of Thunder colt will produce an improved effort today.

“Distant Storm has come forward since the Guineas and we feel that the track and conditions at the Curragh might suit him better,” he said.

“We have a bit of ground to make up on Gstaad based on the last time they met, although we were a lot closer in the Dewhurst. We have been happy with his preparation and Billy Loughnane has ridden him plenty at home, as well as talking to William.

Stamina doubts

Karl Burke raided the 2024 Irish 1000 Guineas with Fallen Angel and is hoping to add the colt’s classic to his CV with Alparslan.

The Dandy Man colt announced himself as a colt of note when bolting up in the here last season and wasn’t disgraced in the Dewhurst Stakes next time out when finishing sixth.

He appeared to be better than ever on reappearance last month, when beating Zavateri in the Greenham Stakes, but now has to prove his ability over a mile.

“I think the key will be whether he stays,” Burke reflected. “If he stays the mile well, then there’s no reason why he shouldn’t run a big race.

“I’m sure he’ll be bang there at the furlong pole and then it’ll be a question of how his stamina kicks in.

“He’s in good shape, we’re very happy with him. He’ll love the ground and he’s a course winner, so he’s a lot going for him. I’m looking forward to seeing him run.”