Trainer Michael Bell insists he could not be happier with the progress Sariska has made since winning the Oaks at Epsom.
Oaks winner fully prepared for Classic double assault
Newmarket handler Michael Bell insists he could not be happier with the progress Sariska has made since winning the Oaks at Epsom.
The powerful filly is 10/11 antepost favourite with
Sky Bet to secure a Classic double in Sunday's Darley Irish Oaks at the Curragh.
Despite defeat in the Fred Darling at Newbury on her seasonal reappearance, connections kept the faith and she repaid them with a stylish success in the Musidora at York.
It was then on to the Oaks at Epsom where she bravely held off Henry Cecil's Midday, who reopposes this weekend after both fillies were supplemented by connections.
Happier
"Sariska will fly out on Saturday morning all things being equal and I have been delighted with her since Epsom," said Bell.
"I just hope they don't get a deluge of rain over the weekend as we just want nice, decent ground. If it did lash it down and it became very soft, it just makes it into a different test all together.
"Everything she has done since Epsom has been good and I really couldn't be happier with her going into the race."
Along with Midday, Jim Bolger's Oh Goodness Me is the only other filly to take Sariska on again.
John Oxx runs Beauty O' Gwaun and Roses For The Lady, Aidan O'Brien relies on Roman Empress and Chirkova while John Murphy runs both Belle Chose and Destined For Fame.
Dermot Weld's Grace O'Malley and John Walsh's Rory Anna complete the field.
Rematch
Midday only went down by a head at Epsom and also met trouble in running leaving Cecil keen for the rematch.
The in-form handler would also not be put off by any rain.
"She's in very good form," said Cecil. I think she'll go on soft ground, if it's bottomless we're in no mans' land.
"Touch wood it's looking OK and I'm looking forward to the rematch. May the best horse win."
