Scorthy Champ has Curragh plan after Newmarket disappointment

Joseph O’Brien is targeting Curragh redemption with Scorthy Champ after he failed to land a telling blow in the 2000 Guineas at Newmarket on Saturday.

A Group One winner in the National Stakes at the Curragh last season, the son of Mehmas was well fancied for the first colts’ Classic of the year but was ultimately well beaten in seventh place.

The Tattersalls Irish 2,000 Guineas on May 24 is now likely to be next on his agenda.

“We didn’t get the result we wanted but he’s pulled up fine,” O’Brien said.

“Newmarket is a tough place, as we know. It’s downhill there and it was a very fast pace, so whether it all just came a bit soon for him, I’m not sure.

“We’ll regroup and come back to the Curragh most likely. We’re still confident that a mile is a good trip for him and we’ll know more after the Curragh.”