3 Questions: Richard Hannon

The trainer leads the British raid with Canford Cliffs at the Curragh today

1. What are your expectations of Canford Cliffs, who has not convinced everyone he gets a mile?

We worked him Wednesday and everyone walked off the gallop smiling. Richard [Hughes] feels he has improved again since Newmarket, and he's settling better. He was just a bit free that day. The track will suit him better, too, he just lost his way in the Dip a bit. Ballydoyle will try and exploit any chinks in our stamina, but none of us have ever had any doubts about the trip. I know plenty still think he's a sprinter, but they said the same about Paco Boy.

2. Speaking of Paco Boy, where does he rank in your career after that emotional success at Newbury last week?

I've been lucky to train some terrific horses, and until now Tirol was probably top. But Paco Boy has done so much these past couple of seasons he's out on his own. It's that explosive turn of foot that sets him apart. He needs a proper gallop, so he can settle early, but when the cards fall right he's a hell of a horse. Royal Ascot will be next. I know Rip Van Winkle and Goldikova have beaten us, but Paco Boy is a different horse now.

3. Memory was another impressive juvenile winner on Wednesday, your 20th of the season. Which do you rate highest so far?

We've probably got another 75 to run – and plenty of them can go a bit, too. If I had to pick out one, it would be the colt who won at Newbury last week, Strong Suit. I'm sure he'll improve a lot.