The Ormonde Stakes has long been a reliable early-season test for older middle-distance stayers, with past winners including the likes of Hamish and Japan. Aidan O’Brien has landed this race three times in the last six renewals, and he sends a strong contender again in Illinois, a colt with Classic form and high-level stamina credentials.

Leading Contenders

ILLINOIS (IRE) – Timeform Rating: 123
A big, powerful colt and a proven stayer, Illinois ended 2024 with a fine second in the St Leger and looks set to make up into a top-level Cup performer. He also landed the Queen’s Vase and the Prix Chaudenay, showing his effectiveness over long trips and versatility with regard to ground. He goes well fresh, but is returning from a 215-day absence, so market support or weakness should be noted. Aidan O’Brien’s record in the race is significant (wins in 2021, 2018 and 2017), and Ryan Moore is booked.

ABSURDE (FR) – Timeform Rating: 127
A Listed winner here last season and fifth in the Melbourne Cup when last seen on the Flat, Absurde has plenty of international staying form. He’s shown good versatility in both codes and comes into this on the back of a wide-margin success over hurdles. Likely to be played late in a race that lacks obvious pace, which may not play to his strengths. William Buick rides for Willie Mullins, who has had increasing success in Flat staying races on British soil.

AL QAREEM (IRE) – Timeform Rating: 124
A consistent and likeable front-runner, Al Qareem could be tactically advantaged here with a weak pace forecast. He’s proven over the trip, goes well on all surfaces, and returned to win a Listed race at Nottingham in game style last time. A previous Chester winner, he looks well set to make the running from a good draw. Likely to give a bold sight if allowed to dictate.


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Main Dangers

MOUNT ATLAS – Timeform Rating: 120p
Unexposed and progressive, Mount Atlas shaped with promise on return at Kempton when fourth in a strong handicap. He travelled powerfully and was not beaten far despite racing prominently in a well-run race. Connections may see this as a test of whether he’s up to Group class, and market strength would be notable. Trainer Andrew Balding has a solid strike rate at Chester (20% since 2021).

ROARING LEGEND (FR) – Timeform Rating: 121
Had a productive all-weather campaign earlier this year, but was well beaten in the All-Weather Marathon Final on Good Friday. He has form over staying trips, and wears a tongue tie after a breathing operation. Capable on his day but may need a strongly run race to be seen at his best.


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Interesting Outsider

MONDO MAN – Timeform Rating: 120
Thrown into the deep end in Group 1 company in France last year and then switched to hurdles. He was outclassed in the Triumph Hurdle, but this return to the Flat may be more suitable. Has ability, but the layoff and patchy profile make him one to watch in the market for signs of confidence.


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Trends & Notables

Aidan O’Brien has won the race 3 times in the past 6 years (Japan in 2021, and previously with St Nicholas Abbey and other top stayers).

Horses with a previous win at Chester (like Al Qareem and Absurde) tend to go well, given the unique demands of the track.

Timeform highlights the tactical pace setup, suggesting Al Qareem may benefit most from a likely steady tempo.

Horses off a break of 60+ days: Illinois, Absurde, Mondo Man – market moves will be informative for their readiness.



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Summary

This looks like a race where tactics could prove decisive. Illinois has the strongest form but must overcome a layoff and a potentially steady pace, while Absurde is classier than most but may not be ideally suited by the race tempo. Al Qareem could hold a tactical edge and comes here fit and in form. Mount Atlas may be the most interesting of the rest, with scope to improve beyond his current rating.