Fourteen three-year-olds have been entered in the 2000 Guineas Trial, a race won previously by classic winners Saffron Walden (Sadler’s Wells), Refuse To Bend (Sadler’s Wells) and Grey Swallow (Daylami). They include impressive debut winner Zorion (Smart Strike), who won his only race last year by 6.5 lengths, Godolphin’s unbeaten Ambassadorial (Elusive Quality), and Gr3 Willis Towers Watson Champions Juv Stakes runner up Firey Speech (Street Cry).

Trainer Aidan O’Brien has a typically strong hand in this race, with his four potential runners including recent 11 length maiden winner Orderofthegarter (Galileo), Gr3 Anglesey Stakes winner Peace Envoy (Oasis Dream) and the regally bred pair of Taj Mahal (Galileo) and War Secretary (War Front).

The Gr3 1000 Guineas Trial has attracted 19 potential 1000 Guineas contenders, including last season’s Gr1 Moyglare Stud Stakes winner Intricately (Fastnet Rock), Gr1 Dubai Fillies Mile runner up Hydrangea (Galileo), Gr1 Prix Marcel Boussac runner up Promise To Be True (Galileo) and 10 length maiden winner Sobetsu (Dubawi).

Third of the classic trials on Saturday’s Leopardstown card, the Gr3 Ballysax Stakes, has enjoyed plenty of success as trial for bigger and better things, with last year’s winner Harzand (Sea The Stars) going on to capture the Epsom classic after landing the Ballysax. Other notable past winners of the race include four time Gr1 Gold Cup winner Yeats (Sadler’s Wells), Irish Derby winner Fame And Glory (Montjeu), and multiple Gr1 winner Fascinating Rock (Fastnet Rock).

Fifteen three-year-olds are entered for Saturday’s Ballysax, including Gr1 Racing Post Trophy runner up Yucatan (Galileo), Rekindling (a full-brother to KZN sire Golden Sword), and Gr2 Beresford Stakes winner Capri (Galileo).

Favourite for the 2000 Guineas is last season’s Cartier Champion 2YO Churchill (Galileo), who is set to go for the first British classic without a prep.