Aidan O'Brien will saddle four runners in the Irish 2000 Guineas at the Curragh on Saturday as he bids to win the race for a remarkable 12th time.
In total, there are 11 declarations for the classic contest open to colts with the Ballydoyle handler once again holding the ace hand. Gustav Klimt, US Navy Flag, Threeandfourpence and Spanish Point are the four engaged for O'Brien with an 8th win in 11 years well within his grasp.
Of the four, Ryan Moore is booked to ride US Navy Flag and could be the first string with Gustav Klimt looking to bounce back from a poor run in the English version of the race at the start of this month.
The Ballydoyle contingent may not have it all their own way though with Mark Johnston sending over the hugely exciting British raider Elarqam to Ireland. The son of Frankel impressed on the Rowley Mile when finishing 4th with the Hamdan Al Maktoum owned colt reportedly to be in fine form ahead of his latest tilt at classic glory for the Scottish trainer.
The unbeaten Zihba remains hugely unexposed but will need more at this level, while Godolphin will be relying on Symbolization following his impressive win at Newmarket last time out for Charlie Appleby and William Buick.
One of the best weekends of the year at the Curragh, punters can also look forward to the Irish 1000 Guineas on Sunday as the fillies get their chance at glory with the Group 1 Tattersalls Gold Cup also on the menu this weekend.
