Damson meets colts in Phoenix

Damson risks her perfect record Sunday at The Curragh against colts in the $360,000 Phoenix Stakes, the first Group 1 for juveniles in the European season.

Damson is coming off a three-length victory in Royal Ascot's five-furlong Group 3 Queen Mary Stakes. Previously the winner of a listed event at the Phoenix distance of six furlongs, she will have Kieren Fallon in the saddle.

Damson faces challenges from three colts trained by Aidan O'Brien, all of whom are by the late Danehill: Oratorio, Russian Blue, and Carnegie Hall.

At Deauville, 19 go in the 6 1/2-furlong Group 1 Prix Maurice de Gheest. The defending champ, Porlezza, and the July Cup winner, Frizzante, meet two-time Group 3 winners Lucky Strike and The Trader.