NaasBallydoyle, Co. Tipperary, Ireland

Aidan O'Brien at Naas — Record, Stats & Key Runners

Last updated: 1 April 2026

Approx. 25-28%
Overall Strike Rate (Flat)
Over 150
Total Naas Winners
Over 30
Naas Group Wins
Juvenile Maidens & Group Races
Best Race Type
Spring & Autumn
Strongest Period

When the Flat season gets into full swing, Aidan O'Brien's presence at Naas is always a significant talking point. The Ballydoyle maestro consistently targets this County Kildare track for some of his most promising juveniles and Classic hopefuls, often using it as a stepping stone to bigger honours. Naas is a critical testing ground for O'Brien, featuring valuable maidens and key Group races throughout the calendar. Punters looking for early indicators of future stars often cast a keen eye over his runners here, as he commands a formidable strike rate.

Aidan O'Brien at Naas — Analysis

Aidan O'Brien's strategy at Naas often revolves around showcasing his top-tier two-year-olds and giving his Classic prospects their initial outings or crucial trials. The track's galloping nature makes it an excellent test, and O'Brien is a regular raider, particularly in the spring for maiden races and early conditions stakes. As the season progresses, his runners are prominent in Group contests like the Beresford Stakes (G2) in the autumn, a traditional stepping stone for future Classic contenders, and the Marble Hill Stakes (G3) for sprinters.

His runners here are typically well-bred, impeccably turned out, and often ridden by his stable jockeys. Look out for his horses with previous run experience or those making their debut in well-subscribed maidens; these are often horses with serious potential. A high percentage of his Naas winners go on to achieve Group success.

Back Aidan O'Brien's Naas runners, especially well-bred juveniles making their debut or those having a second start, particularly in the spring and autumn.

Key Runners at Naas

Auguste RodinWon his maiden at Naas in July 2022 before becoming a multiple Group 1 winner, including the Derby and Irish Derby.
LuxembourgClaimed the Group 2 Beresford Stakes at Naas in September 2021, a key Classic trial.
ChurchillBroke his maiden at Naas in May 2016, later becoming a multiple Group 1 winner, including the English and Irish 2,000 Guineas.
BlackbeardWon the Group 3 Marble Hill Stakes at Naas in May 2022 before Group 1 success as a juvenile.

Preferred Jockeys at Naas

Ryan MooreFirst-choice jockey for major races, boasting an excellent strike rate.
Seamie HeffernanLong-serving stable jockey, often rides promising runners and maintains a strong record.
Wayne LordanReliable and experienced, frequently booked for Naas runners.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of races does Aidan O'Brien target at Naas?

He primarily targets maiden races for two-year-olds, Group races such as the Beresford Stakes and Marble Hill Stakes, and early-season trials for Classic hopefuls.

When is Aidan O'Brien most successful at Naas?

O'Brien has strong periods in both the spring (April-May) for juvenile maidens and early conditions races, and in the autumn (September-October) for important Group races.

Are Aidan O'Brien's debutants at Naas worth backing?

Absolutely. O'Brien often uses Naas as a starting point for highly touted horses. While not all win first time out, many show significant promise and improve quickly, making them excellent propositions.