17 stand ground for 2,000 Guineas

The 2009 2,000 Guineas is set to feature a field of 17 horses, with seven runners departing the race after Thursday’s final forfeit stage.

Aidan O’Brien’s Rip Van Winkle was confirmed for the race despite concerns over his fitness following a stone bruise to his right leg. Mastercraftsman represents O’Brien’s second hope for the 2,000 Guieans. The Irish trainer is looking to achieve his 6th consecutive 2,000 Guineas win.

“Rip Van Winkle has missed some work due to his foot bruise, but the problem has improved day by day. We have two more days to go before the race and, hopefully, he will continue to progress,” O’Brien told the Racing Post.

Brian Meechan’s Delegator remained at the top of the 2,000 Guineas betting tables after the final forfeit stage. There are, however, questions lingering over his participation after Meechan announced he wouldn’t run Delegator over fast ground.

With ground conditions at Newmarket current rated good to firm after watering, Delegator remains a doubtful starter for the race. Thursday’s withdrawals included Arazan, Grand Ducal, Himalya, Intense Focus, Set Sail, Shaweel and Westphalia.

Leading contenders that stood their ground for the year’s opening Classic included Sir Michael Stoute’s impressive entry, Evasive, as well as several other well-backed runners, including Ouqba and See the Stars.