3.35 Goffs Vincent O’Brien National Stakes (Group 1) 7f

Aesop’s Fables: Looked a nice prospect when winning an early-season sprint maiden at Navan and then created a tremendous impression on his first run since then when defeating Hans Andersen by just over two lengths in last month’s Futurity. That effort marks him out as a colt with Group 1 potential and the one to beat here.

Al Riffa: Looked a promising type when chasing home Hans Andersen in a Curragh maiden two months ago and confirmed that impression to run out an assured winner over this course and distance next time. Interesting type with lots of potential and commands respect.

Hans Andersen: Produced one of the most impressive maiden displays of the season when getting off the mark on his second start over this course and distance on Oaks weekend and did nothing wrong when second to Aesop’s Fables in the Futurity next time. Might be better than the Futurity result suggests and so he deserves every consideration.

Marbaan: Progressive type who comes here chasing a four-timer after upstaging much better-fancied rivals to win the Group 2 Vintage Stakes at Goodwood in late July. It will be interesting to see how that form translates to this company and he probably needs to progress again, but he shouldn’t be underestimated.

Proud And Regal: Very likeable sort whose first two runs included a victory in the Group 3 Tyros Stakes at Leopardstown. He couldn’t match Aesop’s Fables in the Futurity last time but still ran an honourable race and it wouldn’t come as any surprise to see him give a good account of himself.

Shartash: Progressed from a win at Naas on his second outing to land the Railway Stakes here on Irish Derby Weekend. Understandably, he found Little Big Bear much too strong when third in the Phoenix Stakes last time. He should be suited by moving up to this trip but will have to improve on his form to date.

Conclusion

Aesop’s Fables impressed with his Futurity effort when he coped well with the step up in trip and a lengthy absence. He can confirm the view that he is a Group 1 winner in waiting, although it wouldn’t be a huge shock if his stablemate Hans Andersen got a little bit closer to him this time. Al Riffa is a promising sort and could get involved. He might represent a bigger threat than Marbaan.