Happily Ever After At Del Mar

The European challenge to the Breeders’ Cup seems to get stronger each year and the British and Irish can make their mark on Friday at Del Mar.

Aidan’s Not Finished Yet
Just days after rewriting the history books, Aidan O’Brien will attempt to extend the world record for Group or Grade 1 winners in a calendar year on the flat and it would be a bit of a shock if he left California without adding to the 26 already achieved this year.

Happily can be the first Ballydoyle runner to strike. Now disputing favouritism for the Juvenile Fillies Turf, Happily has won over 7f and 8f against fillies and then the colts on Arc weekend and she has the experience to see off America’s leading chance, Rushing Fall.

Happily has been busy this year but the Ballydoyle fillies all seem to take that in their stride and providing it doesn’t suddenly take its toll on Happily, there’s little to put you off her.

She could even be better on the ground here and 7/2 looks a good price.

Appleby Going International Again
Charlie Appleby is no stranger to travelling his horses and he can deny Aidan O’Brien in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf. O’Brien will run the blinkered Mendelssohn who seems to be improving but Masar is expected to claim the honours here.

Always well regarded since winning first time out at Goodwood in May, Masar has suffered defeat twice in his four start career and on both occasion he was third to Ballydoyle fillies. First it was September at Ascot in the Chesham and then Happily on Arc weekend…

but being back on quick ground should suit him and Appleby has been sending out all the right vibes ahead of the race.

Drawn in stall six should be perfect for William Buick and it probably isn’t a vintage renewal although it looks extremely competitive.

It will be fascinating to see how Gordon Elliott’s Beckford gets on as he looks to bounce back to form on the biggest stage but stick with Masar to make it a good night for the European challenge on the opening night at the Breeders’ Cup.

Recommended Bets:
Happily (7/2) – 9.25 Del Mar
Masar (5/1) – 10.50 Del Mar

*Prices correct at time of publication.