Cirrus Des Aigles will be targeted at the Hong Kong Vase following his gallant effort in the Prix Royal-Oak on Sunday.
The seven-time Group One winner was attempting the extended one-mile and seven-furlong trip for the first time and was by no means disgraced when fourth behind favourite Vazirabad.
A close fourth in the Hong Kong Cup at Sha Tin last year, the admirable nine-year-old showed no signs of throwing the towel in at Saint-Cloud and trainer Corine Barande-Barbe is pleased he has come out of the race in good condition.
“He has had a summer break this year so he is fresh – I know the horse well,” Barande-Barbe said.
“He ran in the Hong Kong Cup last year but his target will be the Vase this time around.”
The European raiders boast a good recent record in the Group One over a mile and a half, with French trainers responsible for three of the last six winners.
“He will decide whether he stays in training next year and will tell me when he is not enjoying it,” Barande-Barbe said.
