Galileo's
myriad of sire sons have been stepping up this year with his Epsom Derby
winning son Ruler of the World featuring overnight at The Curragh in Ireland
where his three year-old filly Iridessa won the Group I Pretty Polly Stakes.
Trained by Joseph O'Brien, Iridessa was too strong for Classy four year-old
Galileo mare Magic Wand in winning the 1m2f contest by more than two lengths.
A Group I winner of the Newmarket Fillies Mile at her last run as a two
year-old, Iridessa has taken a little while to find her best form this year.
"She had good form
last year and ran well at Newmarket and here last time. She loved the step up
in trip and Wayne [Lordan] gave her a fantastic ride - the race worked out
lovely for her. It was a huge performance in a very strong race. We were
confident of a good run and everyone at home felt she was as good as she has
been all year. I'd say it would make sense to come back here for the Oaks next,
we'll finalise our plan in a week's time or so," said Joseph O'Brien.
Iridessa is the best of three winners from Danehill mare Senta's Dream, a
daughter of US Group I winner Starine.
Iridessa is one of 40 Group I winners bred on the world renowned nick between
champion sires Galileo and Danehill, with other notable success for the nick
this year including Epsom Derby winner Anthony Van Dyck, champion Australian
three year-old The Autumn Sun and Royal Ascot G1 winners Circus Maximus and
Watch Me.
Galileo has limited numbers of sons at stud in Australia with Coolmore offering
Churchill (IRE) and Adelaide (IRE) and Swettenham Stud presenting Highland Reel
(IRE).