City Of Troy solidified his superstar status with a commanding front-running victory in the Juddmonte International Stakes at York on Wednesday.

City Of Troy lowered the course record in 2:04:09, the previous 2:05:29 best time held by the great horse, Sea The Stars

After a dominant two-year-old season, Aidan O’Brien’s son of Justify put his 2000 Guineas disappointment behind him by winning the Derby at Epsom and securing a gritty victory in the Coral-Eclipse at Sandown.

Though some were less impressed by his performance at Sandown, a strong field gathered to challenge him in the Ebor Festival’s opening day feature.

City Of Troy broke quickly under Ryan Moore, with Moore intent on capitalizing on his Classic-winning stamina.

Close behind were Royal Rhyme, stablemate Hans Andersen, Ghostwriter, and Japanese contender Durezza. Meanwhile, other runners from the back of the field worked their way forward as they entered the final stretch.

Calandagan, owned by the Aga Khan, emerged from the pack to pose a serious challenge, continuing a strong season for trainer Francis-Henri Graffard. However, as City Of Troy and the French raider pulled clear, the Royal Ascot winner couldn’t catch Ballydoyle’s standout. 

City Of Troy finished a length ahead of Calandagan, with Clive Cox’s Ghostwriter taking third place. The 5-4 favorite silenced any lingering doubts with a brilliant performance.

The win allows him a place in the Breeders' Cup Classic as an automatic entry. 

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