Attard Family to Square Off in Queen's Plate

It's one of the most interesting and compelling storylines in Queen's Plate history: up-and-coming trainer Jamie Attard (Lions Bay), going up against his Hall of Fame father, Sid (Cap in Hand), and brother Paul (Niigon Express), in Canada's most famous horse race.

Not surprisingly, Sunday's "Gallop for the Guineas" is finding its way into the conversation among the family members.

For second-year trainer, Jamie, this edition of the Plate, his first appearance, is deeply meaningful.

"It's really special to be able to share as equals something like this with my father and brother," said Jamie. "But, when the gate opens, they're the competition and I want to beat them and everyone else. (Laughing) However, I do hope they run second and third."

Lions Bay has made only three career starts, including two as a three-year-old, but the son of Sligo Bay has shown steady improvement after each start.

Owned by the husband and wife team of Martin and Victoria Earle, along with their children, Jonathan and Nicholas, Lions Bay, boasting a record of two wins and one second, has never contested a stakes race.

The dark bay's connections know just what's at stake on Sunday.

"It's obviously a big jump in class for him, but he's a fresh horse and has done everything we've asked of him so far with such class and ease that he really makes you believe in him and feel comfortable taking a shot like this," noted Jamie. "I just hope he has a safe trip and we can really see what kind of horse he is."

Lions Bay will have regular rider Davy Moran in the irons.