O'Brien questions readiness of Guineas contenders

Aidan O'Brien, a well-known horse trainer, has expressed concerns about the readiness of two of his top horses for upcoming races. The Lion In Winter, favored for the Betfred 2000 Guineas, may not be ready to race on May 3. The unbeaten colt set a record at York last August but had setbacks that kept him from racing again as a two-year-old. O'Brien mentioned that The Lion In Winter is a bit behind other contenders. He noted that the horse worked well at the Curragh last weekend but still has uncertainties about participating in the Guineas. If he’s not ready, O'Brien might shift his training focus to the Dante or the Derby. Additionally, Lake Victoria, O'Brien’s leading filly from last year, is also not guaranteed to race in the 1000 Guineas. She has had a longer break than other horses after her successful season. O'Brien said Lake Victoria is training for the Guineas but may also compete in the Athasi Stakes if she isn’t ready. He remains positive about her training progress and believes she will be able to race on time.