All Systems Go For Azamour

John Oxx has reported Azamour to be in flying form ahead of his eagerly-awaited showdown with Motivator in the Baileys Irish Champion Stakes at Leopardstown.

The King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes hero enjoyed a rigorous workout on Friday at his home in Currabeg, and will undergo another piece of work next Tuesday before defending his crown in the Group One showpiece on September 10.

'He´s in great form and we are happy with him,' said Oxx.

'He had a good piece of work today and we´ll be giving him a spin next Tuesday.

'He always works on Tuesdays and Fridays, but we´ll go easier on him next week.'

Christophe Soumillon will ride the Prince of Wales´s Stakes winner as regular partner Mick Kinane is sidelined with a broken wrist.

The French jockey acquainted himself with Azamour last week and is relishing the opportunity of teaming up with the four-year-old colt at Leopardstown.

'Christophe came over from France to sit on the horse and was very happy,' added Oxx. 'He was happy with his routine and is very much looking forward to riding him.'

After Azamour held off Norse Dancer by half a length to win the Irish Champion Stakes in 2004, Oxx is anticipating another cracking renewal this time around.

'What with Motivator running it should be a great race,' said the Irish handler. 'It´s been a great race year after year and we´re looking forward to it.

'The form is there for all to see and he´s proven over the distance.

'He´s one of the ante-post favourites for the race so he´s got to have a chance.'

(C) PA Sport