Analysis. History. Perspective.

Sports Then and Now



Will Aidan O’Brien Continue 2,000 Guineas Success? 0

Posted on May 04, 2018 by Greg Wilson

Aidan O’Brien has enjoyed great success at the 2,000 Guineas, winning the event more times than any other trainer in the history of the prestigious race. The Irishman has claimed victory eight times during his career and could be on course for his ninth triumph at Newmarket.

Gustav Klimt and Saxon Warrior are the leading contenders for the crown. Both horses are from O’Brien’s yard and are quality competitors. However, a lot can still happen between now and the start of the race, therefore, it’s worth tracking Betfair’s racing news to keep up with their progress as well as today’s horse racing tips to keep the mind sharp for future punts. We’ll now look back at O’Brien’s wins at the Guineas to see whether that resulted in success for his charges later in the term.

O'Brien-racing

Source: RP Weekender via Twitter

First Triumph

King of Kings brought the Irishman his first triumph at the Guineas in 1998. The bay stallion had form entering the race, having won three titles the previous season. The three-year-old made a steady start to the event with Michael Kinane in the saddle before making his move with one furlong left in the contest. He surged down the straight to claim the win ahead of Lend A Hand by one-and-a-quarter lengths. The Irish horse competed at Epsom Downs in The Derby but could not produce the same level of form before a knee injury forced him to retire.

Rock of Gibraltar

The horse was a pure stud and inhabited the winning nature of his owner Sir Alex Ferguson. He had won four titles in the previous campaign, including the Dewhurst Stakes. Rock of Gibraltar was not considered the favorite for the event but he produced a fine run to claim the victory in 2002. It was a closely-fought race, edging the favourite Hawk Wing by a neck. He went on to great success in the rest of the season, adding the Irish 2,000 Guineas, Sussex Stakes and Prix du Moulin de Longchamp to his list of victories. Read the rest of this entry →

  • Vintage Athlete of the Month

    • Mickey Lolich: 1968 World Series Hero
      October 2, 2024 | 3:00 pm
      Mickey Lolich

      The Sports Then and Now Vintage Athlete of the Month is one of the most celebrated pitchers in Detroit Tigers history and will forever be remembered for his heroic performance in the 1968 World Series.

      Mickey Lolich is remembered for his durability, resilience, and ability to deliver in clutch situations. Known for his powerful left arm and an almost superhuman capacity to pitch complete games, Lolich etched his name in baseball history with his stellar performance in the 1968 World Series, leading the Tigers to a championship. His career, spanning from 1963 to 1979, was defined by consistency, longevity, and an unyielding competitive spirit. Lolich may not have the same level of fame as some of his contemporaries, but his achievements on the mound have earned him a lasting legacy in the annals of Major League Baseball.

      Read more »

    • RSSArchive for Vintage Athlete of the Month »
  • Follow Us Online

  • Current Poll

    Which Rookie Quarterback Will Have the Best Season?

    View Results

    Loading ... Loading ...
  • Post Categories



↑ Top