Tuesday 21 November 2017 11:50, UK
Jessica Harrington is keeping her fingers crossed Alpha Centauri can provide her with a first Classic success in 2018.
While the Moone-based trainer has made her name as a leading National Hunt trainer, she has become an increasingly potent force on the Flat.
Alpha Centauri, who carries the colours of the Niarchos family, was hugely impressive on her first two starts at Naas before going down by just a neck to Different League in the Albany Stakes at Royal Ascot.
She could only finish fifth on her most recent appearance in the Moyglare Stud Stakes at the Curragh in September, but Harrington is keen to aim towards the 1000 Guineas next spring.
"I would love to win a Classic on the Flat," said Harrington.
"I've been second and I've been third, but haven't quite got there yet. I think I have some nice horses for next year, so we are not without hope,
"Alpha Centauri is out in the field with a rug on her at the moment, and will come in around the start of December. Given her size, hopefully she will be better as a three-year-old.
"She will probably end up going to the Guineas first and has an Oaks entry as well. You would imagine she will stay."
