Cirrus des Aigles is back for a third crack at winning an international race in Hong Kong - this time better than ever - and with the benefit of his special synergy with star jockey Christophe Soumillon. Trainer Corinne Barande-Barbe, speaks excellent English, but reverted to her native tongue when describing the combination of 'Cirrus and Christophe'.
'I think they have what we call in French osmose - there is a certain chemistry between them,' she said. 'It means they think and do things at the same time.'
Osmose is what was on display in Cirrus des Aigles' giant-killing display in October's Champion Stakes at Asscot when they powered past So You Think. It was Soumillon's second ride on the gelding, the first being a second to champion mare Goldikova in the Group One Prix d'Ispahan in May.
Cirrus des Aigles contests Sunday's Cathay Pacific Hong Kong Cup, having won five of 10 this year, including two Group Ones, and has not missed a place in 2011. The warhorse has shown unyielding durability through 38 starts, yet has taken his performances to another level. He is the second highest-rated galloper in the world on 128, behind Frankel (135), and equal with Black Caviar.
In 2009, Cirrus des Aigles was fifth in the Vase after racing three-wide with no cover, and last year was unlucky in the Cup when drawing wide and finishing seventh.
Contributing to his chances this time are a perfect barrier (two) and the fact the horse has been set specifically for this race.
