3 minute read

The 5-year-old challenger from Japan, crossed the finish line as third and the race was won by the Aiden O'brien-trained Magical.

Globe-trotting Deirdre, a 5-year-old mare by Harbinger, finished third in the Group 1 QIPCO Champion Stakes, held at Ascot Racecourse on Saturday, Oct. 19. Magical, just 13 days after running fifth in the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, held off a hard challenge by 5-year-old Addeybb to win by 3/4 lengths.

Starting from the Dubai Turf in March, Deirdre has now run six races outside of Japan this year. Her trainer, Mitsuru Hashida, said after the Champion Stakes that her next run will be decided after discussing with the owner.

"She raced a bit behind than what I had anticipated, but I think she got into the rhythm of the race nicely," Hashida said. "She seemed to have much left coming around the fourth corner, but couldn't accelerate as she normally does with the soft track. She did run her race, though, and (jockey) Oisin Murphy did his best as well."

"She jumped well and travelled well throughout the race," Murphy said. "The track was much slower than what I had hoped, and that sure had an effect on her closing speed. But she ran her heart out and came in third at the finish. Again, the connections prepared her nicely for this race, and she certainly is a horse that Japan can be proud."