St Nic all set for clash with Frankel Aidan O'Brien feels St Nicholas Abbey is still improving ahead of his mouthwatering clash with Frankel in the Juddmonte International at York. The five-year-old landed the Coronation Cup for the second successive season at Epsom in June and was last seen when flashing home for third in the Betfair-sponsored King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot. "The Juddmonte International was always on the cards for St Nicholas Abbey. He had a little bit of a break after the King George and is very well at the moment. We were very happy with him at Ascot. He travelled and quickened very well and we were delighted with him," the trainer said. "We've always thought the world of St Nic. He was a very good two-year-old, his three-year-old career was a bit of a mess but we've been delighted with him at four and five. He's a very exciting horse and one who can travel and quicken. We think he's still on the upgrade too. "Frankel is a great horse and every time we see him is a privilege. It's important for racing to have champions and he's an incredible horse but we've always thought the world of St Nic and he's still progressing. We're looking forward to the race - to seeing our horse - and to seeing Frankel."
