Breeders’ Cup Turf

(1m 4f, turf)

SO, Highland Reel (third) went out on his shield in third, beaten only a length in his repeat bid. He didn’t have it on the day, though – Moore was concerned a long way out.

The fractions were 23.69, 24.64, 24.53, 25.14, 24.44 and 23.75 – the pace slackened a bit midrace, but it was still a valid time trial and 2:26.19 was right up to expectations.

Talismanic is short of the best in Europe, but he is a son of Medaglia d’Oro and a very interesting candidate for a surface switch, with the Dubai World Cup in mind.

Trainer Andre Fabre is a master and had spotted him for this for many weeks – a plan well worth trying, considering it is a $4m race which takes a performance 7lb less than the Arc to win.

O’Brien’s Seventh Heaven (fifth) may be one to note, if her career is extended. Finally back on fast ground, she was trying to close from 10 lengths back with the leaders still full of run; it was all she could do to reach her final spot.

Cliffs Of Moher (8th) missed the break and it is to be hoped the Derby runner-up doesn’t turn into another US Army Ranger. Decorated Knight (10th) was also tardy at the traps and had nothing left after a great season.