IMPRESSIVE National Stakes winner Thunder Moon could head to Newmarket for the Dewhurst Stakes.
Joseph O’Brien’s colt shot to the top of the betting for the 2000 Guineas after his Curragh victory.
His trainer wasn’t at the track to see the win in person after stable jockey Shane Crosse’s positive COVID test, but was left smiling from his Curragh base.
After only one run prior to his Group 1 bow, O’Brien’s youngster improved by the bucket load to see off his dad’s – Aidan O’Brien – pair of Wembley and St Mark’s Basilica.
Thunder Moon was made the 7-1 2000 Guineas antepost favourite from Ascot and Goodwood winner Battleground.
O’Brien said: “We were very happy with him. It was a bit of a messy race, but he showed a great turn of foot to go away and win well.
“We did supplement him, so we were hopeful he’d run a nice race, but I suppose I was surprised by the manner of his victory.”
Considering future plans, he added: “If he was to run again this year, the Dewhurst would probably be the race for him, but we’ll see how he comes out of the race on Sunday and a lot will depend on the ground as well.
“The Breeders’ Cup is there as an option as well, but that wouldn’t be on my radar at the moment.
“He’s an exciting colt.”
O’Brien’s colt could clash with impressive Champagne Stakes winner Chindit in the Dewhurst on October 10 as well as the Richard Hannon stablemate Etonian.
