Item set for Irish Champion Stakes before any decision on Arc is made

Item is set to join stablemate Blue Bolt on the trip to Ireland next week, with Andrew Balding stating his intention to have a crack at the Royal Bahrain Irish Champion Stakes with the Juddmonte International Stakes hero.

Balding had hinted at a return to further for the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe with the Frankel colt, but before a trip to ParisLongchamp comes under consideration, Item will first head to Leopardstown for what could prove a huge afternoon for both the Kingsclere team and owners Juddmonte, with Blue Bolt also in action in the Matron Stakes.

Balding told the Press Association: “I’m very happy with both Item and Blue Bolt and I’m hoping they will both go to Leopardstown.

“The Arc is still in the picture for Item, but he wouldn’t want to go a mile and a half on soft ground, that’s for sure. He’ll go to Ireland and then see.”

Item is currently 3-1 with Paddy Power for one of the features of the Irish Champions Festival, with Aidan O’Brien’s Constitution River the even-money favourite for the Group One showpiece, while the Balding runner is a general 12-1 chance for the Arc on October 4.

Europe’s richest middle-distance prize is also under consideration once again for star mare Kalpana, who has enjoyed a dream season adding the Yorkshire Oaks to the King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes she landed previously on the Knavesmire last month.

The thriving five-year-old was seventh on the Bois de Boulogne behind Daryz last year and is currently enjoying a short break before her team build her up to conclude her fine campaign either on the continent or back at her beloved Ascot in search of a third British Champions Fillies & Mares Stakes.

Balding added: “Kalpana has two autumn targets that we’re considering, but we will know more nearer the time. Obviously they are the Arc and Ascot.”