Watch Me and Hermosa lead Matron entries Watch Me and Hermosa are among 36 classy entries for the Coolmore Fastnet Rock Matron Stakes at Leopardstown on September 14th on Irish Champions Weekend. Francis Graffard's Watch Me got the better of Aidan O'Brien's dual Guineas winner in the Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot and the pair could clash again. Watch Me is one of four French entries along with stable companion Bowled Over, the Jean-Claude Rouget-trained French Oaks runner-up Commes and Pascal Bary's Obligate, who is herself unbeaten in three starts. William Haggas has seven possibles with Royal Ascot winner Move Swiftly, Beshaayir and One Master among them. Karl Burke's Laurens could also return having beaten Alpha Centuari in last year's race. Along with Hermosa, Aidan O'Brien has entered Magical and Pink Dogwood among others, while Skitter Scatter and Iridessa are also in the mix. In the Qipco Irish Champion Stakes, Sir Michael Stoute’s Crystal Ocean is one of 43 contenders. Impressive French Derby winner Sottsass could tackle Persian King again with France once more well represented. Masar, Sea Of Class, Phoenix Of Spain and Madhmoon offer a tantalising glimpse of what could lie in store. O’Brien’s potential team includes Magna Grecia, Japan, Sir Dragonet, Anthony Van Dyck and Circus Maximus. Too Darn Hot, Telecaster, Lord Glitters and Salouen are just some of the possibles.
