It’s not every day Aidan O’Brien stays up past 9pm, but this Sunday was no ordinary night. Golf had him hooked.
Rory McIlroy’s chase for glory at Augusta had the legendary horse trainer glued to his TV, trading his usual early bedtime for a slice of sporting history.
And even with a late finish, O’Brien was back at Ballydoyle at the crack of dawn, eggs on the plate, eyes on the track, already plotting his next chapter.
For O’Brien, whose career is built on routine and precision, the excitement of witnessing greatness in one sport seemed to ignite fresh energy for his own.
Now, with a stable full of promise and no clear standout like last year’s City of Troy, he’s setting out to find the next big thing from his talented roster of thoroughbreds.
No Clear Star Yet, But Plenty of Rising Talent at Ballydoyle
Unlike last spring, there’s no guaranteed headliner galloping through the Ballydoyle fields.
But don’t let that fool you—O’Brien has a stable packed with potential.
He’s got his eye on a few horses who, with the right touch, might just turn into stars.
“It’s a tricky time,” he said. “You’re always pushing some forward, pulling others back, trying not to overdo it too early.
It’s a fine balance—kind of like trying to play a perfect round of golf.”
It’s clear he’s not rushing the process. The goal? Let his young horses grow into their greatness, rather than forcing the issue.
The journey, not the shortcuts, is what O’Brien trusts.
Twain and Expanded Could Be the Ones to Watch This Summer
Two names that keep popping up are Twain and Expanded—young colts who surprised everyone by jumping into Group One races just a week after winning their maidens.
That’s a huge leap, but both handled it like veterans.
Twain, in particular, looked special. He even traveled to France and dominated the Criterium International.
Now, he’s prepping for the Betfred 2000 Guineas at Newmarket on May 4, aiming to give O’Brien his 11th win in the race—his first since 2019.
Expanded might head to The Curragh instead, but he’s another who could light up the season.
O’Brien admitted he pushed them a little hard last year, but so far, the gamble looks like it’s paying off.
The Lion In Winter Still Has a Big Roar Left
Another exciting contender is The Lion In Winter—currently the favorite for the Derby, though he hasn’t raced since last August.
While the original plan was to send him to Newmarket, he’s now expected to make his return in the Dante Stakes at York.
“He’s a strong horse,” O’Brien explained. “We’ll see if he can handle the Derby distance.
The Dante will tell us a lot—he won’t be 100 percent, but close.”
It’s a cautious approach, but one filled with optimism. If the horse delivers in York, he could be right on track for a major summer run.
Lake Victoria’s Back on the Radar for Newmarket Glory
Let’s not forget about the fillies. Lake Victoria—who dazzled last autumn by winning Group One races in Ireland, England, and the U.S.—has been quietly making a comeback.
Her form dipped slightly, but O’Brien now believes she’s turning the corner.
“She’s coming forward nicely,” he said, hinting at a possible tilt at Newmarket’s 1000 Guineas.
Alongside her, Dreamy—a sweet-tempered filly sired by the legendary American Pharoah—is gaining attention for the Epsom Oaks.
Hypnosis, another up-and-comer, is said to be on the brink of breaking out.
Storm Boy Eyes Royal Ascot After Jetting in from Australia
There’s also some international flair in the mix. Storm Boy, a sprinter newly arrived from Australia, is being aimed at the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Royal Ascot.
He brings a different style to the Ballydoyle setup, but O’Brien is excited about the challenge.
And speaking of proven performers, Kyprios—the staying superstar who won seven out of seven last year—is ready for another campaign.
He’ll be back targeting the Ascot Gold Cup and, if all goes well, might even have a go at the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.
“He hasn’t changed a bit,” O’Brien said, with a glint of admiration.
“He’s been a pro since he was two. Now he’s eight, and still just as incredible.”
The Next Chapter Is Taking Shape—But Don’t Expect O’Brien to Rush It
As much as O’Brien respects a clear plan, he knows that in racing—as in golf or life—you’ve got to let greatness unfold at its own pace.
Whether it’s an unknown colt making a leap or a returning champion defying the odds, the possibilities are wide open.
“Every year is different,” he said. “But the work, the challenge—it never stops.
That’s what keeps you going.”
And with a barn full of eager young talents, don’t be surprised if O’Brien adds another chapter to his legacy before this season is over.