“Plan Z”: Ryan Moore guided Tepin’s offspring Delacroix Chapter 7 to victory in the Coral Eclipse, a story first reported by the Paulick Report.
Delacroix Chapter 7, who was the favorite in the last Epsom Derby (G1) but didn’t win, made a comeback on Saturday at Sandown. The Coolmore Partners’ Dubai-bred colt faced tough competition from a Hall of Fame contender who pressed hard near the finish line for a close neck win. Thanks to Moore’s calm and strategic riding, Delacroix navigated through a tricky final stretch, where his path was repeatedly blocked. Eventually shifted to the outside, the colt launched a powerful finishing burst to edge out the Prince of Wales (G1) winner, William Buick, near the finish line.
The Dual Guineas winner from Kentucky finished third, trailing by 1 3/4 lengths. Moore praised Delacroix’s footwork in an interview with ITV Racing. This win marked Moore and trainer Aidan O’Brien’s third consecutive Eclipse victory and O’Brien’s fourth in the last five editions.
O’Brien commended Moore’s extraordinary effort, noting how he adapted his strategy multiple times during the race. He said, “Ryan knew the horse’s speed and potential better than anyone. While we had a plan, this turned into ‘Plan Z,’ and it was an exceptional ride.”
French Derby winner Kamille Pissarro placed fourth, Hotazhell came in fifth, and the pacesetter Socie completed the finishing order.
Delacroix had previously claimed his first top-level win at Coral and Continent during the Epsom Derby on June 7th. Prior achievements included winning Ireland’s Leopardstown Ballysax (G3) and Derby Trial (G3) and finishing second in Doncaster’s Futurity Trophy (G1). His record stands at 5 wins and 3 places from 9 races.
Bred and raised in Ireland, Delacroix is the last of four foals from Tepin, the American champion turf mare who passed away last October. Tepin also produced Grateful, a Group 1 winner by Galileo (IRE).
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Fan Take: This victory showcases the incredible talent and resilience of Delacroix and highlights Ryan Moore’s tactical genius in top-tier racing. For fans and the sport, it signals exciting potential for new champions emerging from strong bloodlines, ensuring thrilling competition ahead.
