McBride seeking Maiden success
Kieren Fallon should be freed up to ride Blue Maiden in Sunday’s Etihad Airways Irish 1000 Guineas.
Trainer Charlie McBride has used the former champion jockey to ride work on his horses, although he lost out to Aidan O’Brien when Fallon deserted Audacity Of Hope for Viscount Nelson in the 2000 Guineas at Newmarket.
Fallon would have partnered Seta if she had been confirmed this weekend, while Ryan Moore is expected to be aboard another of his former rides in Music Show.
Mick Channon’s Music Show was the first home in the group racing on the far side of the track in the English 1000, finishing sixth, three places ahead of Blue Maiden.
The pair were closer when first and second in the Nell Gwyn at Newmarket earlier in the season.
“Obviously she was drawn on the wrong side in the Guineas and also Jamie Spencer thought the ground was a bit soft for her,” said McBride.
“They are saying it might be good to firm at the Curragh on Sunday, that would be fine for us and hopefully we can get a better result. She has had an easy couple of weeks, but is very well.
“Music Show was first on the far side, we have got a few lengths to find and I would say she will take the beating.”
Explaining the jockey situation, McBride continued: “We have pencilled in Kieren.
“I’ve spoken to his agent and he is very happy for Kieren to ride her so hopefully he will. He has ridden her work before.”
Audacity Of Hope only beat a couple home in the 2000 Guineas and should be out again imminently.
McBride explained: “I am looking at running him in a conditions race at Sandown next Thursday and if that goes well, maybe look at the Britannia at Royal Ascot.”
