The super calm and collected French trainer Alain Royer-Dupre brings his triple Dubai Gold Cup winning six year old to the mix at Royal Ascot’s most prestigious race The Gr. Gold Cup. Unlike Stradivarius, Vazirabad is a Group 1 winner over the Gold Cup’s distance, while he scored at Gr. 2 level on his seasonal return, which cannot be said about Order Of St George. He’s also bested fellow contestants Torcedor and Sheikhzayedroad in past encounters.

 

Alain Royer-Dupre speaks exclusively to Secretariat’s World about Vazirabad’s Royal Ascot debut.

 

Q: How are the preparations going for the son of Manduro?

A: He is doing really really well. He has had a preparation race three weeks ago, which he aced. We are very happy with him.

 

Q: If all goes well at Ascot, what are you plans for him afterwards?

A: Ascot is a very demanding track and very tough. Furthermore, the Gold Cup is a very demanding race. If all goes well at the Royal meeting, Vazirabad will go onto the Goodwood Cup. But we have no plans after this race. We will consider his health. Perhaps he may need a small break after these taxing contests.

 

Q: Vazirabad is your only contender at Royal Ascot. But you have had some good success at home well recently?

A: Yes, Musis Amica was runner up in the French Oaks which was held a few weeks ago at Chantilly.

 

Q: You were concerned about the weather at Ascot during the Gold Cup. Is that still the case?

A: I hope we have a good track and not too hot weather. Infact I really hope it rains. The heat is not good for horse travel.

 

Q: Are there any concerns about any of the other contenders?  

A: I know my horse is very of a very high quality and well trained. He is good enough to be competitive. John Godsen and O’Brien have good horses but we are ready to challenge (them).