Limestone

The speed of his development speaks volumes. Limestone got off the mark at Listowel in late September on heavy, muddy ground, then kept winning at regular intervals. By mid-June, trainer J P O'Brien sent him to Ascot and he won there too—a significant step up in class. That was two months ago, and while he hasn't won since then, his last two races show second and fifth-place finishes, suggesting he's being aimed at tougher company or longer distances where he can properly stretch his legs. O'Brien has described him as a horse with the makings of a genuine stayer, someone who handles both wet ground and faster, drier surfaces with equal comfort. That versatility is rare and valuable; most horses have a preferred type of ground, but Limestone seems to thrive regardless of what the track throws at him.

Working out of Owning Hill in County Kilkenny, O'Brien's yard is one of the busiest in Ireland this season, with 160 winners already sent out. The fact that Limestone stands out even in that company, with his win rate and recent form, suggests he belongs in the better grades of racing. He's still actively racing and improving, which at three years old means the best may be yet to come.