Deirdre Trains in Newmarket With Eye on Longchamp

Star mare Deirdre is in Newmarket preparing for another top-level European campaign with the ultimate aim of becoming the first Japanese-trained winner of the Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe (G1).

Last season's Qatar Nassau Stakes (G1) heroine was denied a clear run when finishing off well into fourth in the QIPCO Irish Champion Stakes (G1) at Leopardstown before she ran with credit in third behind Magical and Addeybb on heavy ground in the British equivalent at Ascot in October.

On her most recent start in February, the popular 6-year-old was turned over at odds of 4-11 when beaten a head in the first turf race to be run at the new Riyadh course in Saudi Arabia.

Connections of the Toji Morita-owned mare toyed with the idea of running her at ParisLongchamp last October but decided against entering at the supplementary stage.

Trainer Mitsuru Hashida said: "It's been about a month since we came back from Saudi Arabia, and Deirdre has been very consistent as usual. She is ready to move to the next step for her race preparation.

He added: "The ultimate aim this year is the Arc. We are looking forward to having more group 1 experiences in Europe."

Deirdre's Goodwood victory bridged a 19-year gap since the last Japanese horse won a group 1 in Britain (Agnes World in the 2000 July Cup), and she became the first horse from Japan to compete in Ireland when lining up at Leopardstown in September.

The start time of the Irish Champion Stakes was even adjusted in order to accommodate a significant Japanese television audience tuning in to watch the race.

Hashida says a return trip to Ireland for the May 24 Tattersalls Gold Cup (G1) at the Curragh will be considered, though the implications of the COVID-19 crisis could prove disruptive. No overseas horses were allowed to compete in Ireland when racing took place behind closed doors last month.

"It is a serious option for her next run," the trainer said. "Everyone is working incredibly hard to sustain the racing industry. I greatly appreciate these efforts."

Plotting an international campaign comes with added logistical problems against a backdrop of the pandemic, and Hashida added: "I believe it is very important to maintain Deirdre's routines. Fortunately, she has been in training in Newmarket, where she feels comfortable.

"Based there, bringing her to the big races around Europe will be the most efficient and effective approach in terms of the time and distance."