Happily sister to Gleneagles hits the winners enclosure at the Curragh

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30.06

Happily stepped up on her debut performance to land the juvenile fillies' maiden over seven furlongs in the Curragh for Aidan and Donnacha O'Brien.

The sister to Gleneagles was seventh in Leopardstown just over three weeks ago in a race won by her stablemate September.

However, it was a different story today as the favourite raced in rear of mid-division before being ridden into contention over a furlong out.

She picked off Shalailah inside the furlong pole and asserted in the final 100 yards to win snugly by a length and three parts at 8/11.< Shalailah (6/1) came in second with Sizzling running on for third at 9/1 on debut for O'Brien snr. She was beaten four lengths by the winner.

Aidan O’Brien said: “She’s a lovely filly with a good pedigree and will obviously stay further.

"She was trapped out a little bit by herself and was a little bit green in the middle part of the race. It was a help that she had the run but finished out her race very well which you like to see.

"She is still babyish but you would have to love the way she finished off. She will slot into a Listed or Group race next time.”

On Royal Ascot winner (of the Chesham) September, he added: "She is good. Seamus (Heffernan) rode her this morning and he was very happy with her so she'll have a little bit of an easy time. I think we might come back here for the Debutante and go on from there."

Additional reporting by Alan Magee

©Healy Racing Photos

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His CV is getting bigger and better GALILEO is just Phenomenal

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3 For your notebooks

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Cliff & Eminent set for Eclipse match up

29.06

Martyn Meade believes the course at Sandown will be tailor-made for Eminent when he goes for glory in the Coral-Eclipse Stakes on July 8th.

The Frankel colt showed his well-being in a seven-furlong workout at Newmarket on Wednesday with regular work companion Solo Hunter, when he was reported to have clocked a speed in excess of 40mph.

"He worked very well his morning and he's on course to go to Sandown at week on Saturday. That's the plan," said Meade.

Eminent has performed with credit in both the Qipco 2000 Guineas (sixth) and in particular the Investec Derby (fourth), after creating a good impression when winning the Craven Stakes on his seasonal debut.

It looks as though Eminent will get the chance to reverse Epsom form with Cliffs Of Moher, who finished two places and one length in front of him in the Derby won by Wings Of Eagles, after Aidan O'Brien nominated Sandown as his next port of call.

"The plan with Cliffs Of Moher is to go for the Eclipse," the Ballydoyle handler told At The Races.

And Meade is all for taking on the Irish raider again. "We'll try to make sure we beat him this time!" said the Newmarket trainer.

"I think it will be a different race to the Derby, that's for certain. It's the track that is going to suit us much better than Epsom.

"It's a shorter distance, but I'm quite happy with him over one-mile-two. Hopefully they will go a good gallop there, which will also suit us.

"We're looking forward to it. It's all systems go for Sandown."

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Wings faces 8 in Irish Derby

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29.06

Epsom hero Wings Of Eagles will face eight rivals when he bids to follow up in the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby at the Curragh on Saturday.

The son of Pour Moi was a shock 40-1 winner of the premier Classic four weeks ago, providing trainer Aidan O'Brien with a sixth victory in the race.

The Ballydoyle maestro has saddled a record 11 previous winners of the Irish Derby and Wings Of Eagles is, along with Capri, Douglas Macarthur, Taj Mahal and The Anvil, one of five Ballydoyle representatives in this year's renewal.

British hopes rest upon the shoulders of the John Gosden-trained Cracksman, who was just a length behind Wings Of Eagles when third at Epsom.

Gosden, who broke his Irish Derby duck with Jack Hobbs in 2015, was quick to snap up the services of jockey Pat Smullen to replace the sidelined Frankie Dettori.

The Jim Bolger-trained Dubai Sand and Grandee from Jessica Harrington's stable make up the home team.

The field is completed by Andre Fabre's French Derby runner-up Waldgeist.

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News on Somehow Wings of Eagles Caravaggio & Acapulco

29.06.17

Somehow will not run at the Curragh this weekend she was down to run in the Pretty Polly Stakes G1 but Trainer Aidan has stated that "She will not be running in Sunday's race,"

Aidan will have a strong hand for the Irish Derby he gave an update on Epsom Derby heroWings of Eagles "Wings Of Eagles is in good form. We are keeping an eye on the weather before deciding what may happen with our runners," Capri, Douglas Macarthur, Finn McCool, Spanish Steps, Taj Mahal, The Anvil and Venice Beach are all also being considered for the big race.

Caravaggio is set to target the July Cup Aidan Said "We were always very happy in the race and you must remember it was just his second run of the year, quite a big step up form the run he had at Naas. He was very good, and it was a very solid performance. We always take one race at a time. When he is back in full work, the July Cup is one of the main races we will look at. We're thinking of that at the moment. As for later on, it's just a case of taking one race at a time.

"You'd have to be very excited about him (at stud). He's a total out-cross for all our Northern Dancer-line mares."

It's also likely we have seen the last of Acapulco Aidan Said "It's very possible she won't run again. Royal Ascot was disappointing but such is racing and she is a very important mare for us".

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Pocket Talking at Naas as Ballydoyle nail a treble on the night

Healey Racing Photos

28.06

Pocketfullofdreams completed a treble at Naas for Aidan O'Brien, as she ran out a comfortable winner of the concluding Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Maiden.

O'Brien earlier took the opener with Butterscotch, while he was successful in the feature race with Key To My Heart.

The latter was ridden by Donnacha O'Brien, and his sister Ana got the leg up on Pocketfullodreams who was sent off the 9/10 favourite (touched 11/10 on-course).

Second on three of her previous seven starts, the daughter of Invincible Spirit made all here, stretching clear with under two furlongs left to race, keeping on well to score by four and three parts of a length.

Breeze filled the runner-up spot under Chris Hayes for Fozzy Stack at 7/2 (from 4s), while newcomer Dayereh (12/1) was another two lengths way in third for Mick Halford and Shane Foley.

Ana O’Brien said afterwards: "She's had a few good runs and was entitled to do that. She was a bit below par last time but had a tough race before that at Epsom (in the Oaks)."

Goldrush and Belle Boyd, who were prominent in the betting in early shows, were both taken out due to the change in going.

STEWARDS REPORT

R.P. Whelan, rider of One Cool Girl, trained by D.Broad, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount rolled and caused some interference when tiring in the latter stages of this race.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee

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Key to my Heart bolts up in Naas Oaks Trial

Healey Racing Photos

28.06

Key To My Heart put in a career best performance to land the feature this evening, the Listed Queally Group Irish EBF Naas Oaks Trial.

Without a win in five starts as a juvenile, the daughter of Galileo got off the mark at Dundalk in April, finishing seventh on her next outing in the Salsabil Stakes at Navan.

She ran well to finish fifth in the Blue Wind Stakes on her penultimate start, before disappointing on her most recent outing in the Munster Oaks at Cork.

Available at 10/1 this morning, she opened at 8s on-course before going off a 7/1 chance under Donnacha O'Brien for his father Aidan (completing a double having won the opener with Butterscotch).

In front in the early stages, she was soon headed and raced in second. She regained the lead early in the straight and was ridden clear from over two furlongs out, keeping on well from there to score by two and three parts of a length.

Curragh maiden winner Bloomfield was sent off the 3/1 favourite (6s last night and from an opening show of 4s), and she kept on to take second under Billy Lee for Willie McCreery.

Aidan O'Brien was also responsible for the third horse home, and that was Elizabeth Browning who was returned at 12/1 under Wayne Lordan.

Donnacha O’Brien said afterwards: "She quickened up nicely and it was a good performance. I was travelling well and I said I'd try and stretch them early in the straight.

"It's great to get a Listed race win for a well-bred filly like this. and she's a very valuable broodmare now. I was happy to go along (in front) myself but Niall (McCullagh) wanted to go so it was ideal to get a lead on her."

Additional reporting by Alan Magee

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3rd Time Lucky For Butterscotch

Healey Racing Photos

28.06

Butterscotch made it third time lucky, as she got off the mark in the opener at Naas this evening, the House Of Finance Supporting Kildare Chamber Irish EBF Fillies Maiden.

A close fifth on debut at the Curragh in May, the Aidan O'Brien trained bay was since beaten into second by Sometimesadiamond at Fairyhouse.

Having opened at evens on-course, the daughter of Galileo eventually went off the 5/6 favourite under Seamie Heffernan.

Behind the leaders on the outer in the early stages, she hit the front from halfway and went a few lengths clear from over a furlong out, staying on well to record a comfortable five length success.

Newcomer Dawn Hoofer finished second under Kevin Manning for Jim Bolger at 9/1, while Grace Rafaela (10/1) was another length away in third with Shane Kelly aboard for Michael O'Callaghan.

Heffernan said afterwards: "She is starting to do things right. She didn't do things right the last day but she did today. Aidan's horses tend to improve from run to run, and it's taken a while for the penny to drop with her."

The winner holds plenty of big race entries, and she is a half-sister to Listed winner Coach House who was second in the Norfolk at Royal Ascot in 2013.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee

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Winter Given Nassau Option

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28.06

Aidan O'Brien has given his three-times Group One winner the option of the 10-furlong contest, for which 30 fillies and mares have been entered.

Among those are stablemates Alice Springs, Rhododendron and Seventh Heaven.

Sir Michael Stoute has his eye on the race for Breeders' Cup winner Queen's Trust, second to Minding in the Nassau last year and a little unlucky against the boys in the Prince of Wales's Stakes last week.

Chris Richardson, managing director of Queen's Trust's owners Cheveley Park Stud, said: "We would very much hope that Queen's Trust can go for the Nassau Stakes again this year.

"I haven't spoken to Sir Michael since her run at Royal Ascot last week but we have put her in and the race is very much an option for her.

"She was slowly away at Royal Ascot and got pinned in on the rail. When she did get clear, she ran on well to the line.

"She certainly showed improvement from her first run this season at York and hopefully she can continue to do that throughout the year."

Stoute has also entered South African champion Smart Call and Abingdon.

John Gosden is another trainer with a strong hand in Shutter Speed, Journey and So Mi Dar.

Wuheida and Sobetsu, Group One winners already for Charlie Appleby, Absolute Blast and Sea Of Grace are also in the mix.

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Timeform Global Rankings European Division Ballydoyle Spotlight & News 27/06/2017

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Leading Sire tables Updated

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British Flat Trainers Championship Updated

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A.P.O'Brien Season Earnings Updated

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Aidan could send 4 to Stars & Stripes Festival

Aidan O'Brien could send 4 horses over to the Stars & Stripes festival.

The penciled in runners for the $1.2 million Belmont Derby are Taj mahal fourth in the Group 3. Hampton Court Last week at Royal Ascot, Taj Mahal is searching for his first win since breaking his maiden last October over Dundalk's Polytrack course. This year, the Irish-bred Galileo colt finished a close fourth in the Prix du Jockey Club, 1 ½ lengths behind the winner, Brametot. War Decree returned in 2017 after a nearly nine-month layoff with a sixth-place finish in the Group 3 Craven at Newmarket Racecourse in April. He most recently finished a troubled fifth in the 1 mile two and a half furlong Prix du Jockey Club Group 1 at Chantilly Racecourse in France on June 4.

The 2 fillies penciled in for the $1 million Belmont Oaks are Alluringly a daughter of Fastnet Rock, broke her maiden by 4 ¾ lengths in her seasonal bow in April and has followed up with a runner-up effort in a listed stakes and a distant third-place finish in the Group 1 Investec Oaks at 1 ½ miles at Epsom Racecourse on June 2. In her last start, Alluringly finished sixth in Royal Ascot's Group 2 Ribblesdale on June 22 & Rain Goddess, A Daughter of Galileo, won her debut at seven furlongs last fall and was second in the one-mile Sandringham on June 21, finishing 1 ¼ lengths behind the Wesley Ward-trained Con Te Partiro.

Both races are at Belmont Park on Saturday, July 8,

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George Orange rematch on the cards at Goodwood

26.06

Order Of St George could clash again with his Royal Ascot conqueror Big Orange in the Qatar Goodwood Cup.

The Aidan O'Brien-trained Order Of St George was a red-hot favourite to claim back-to-back runnings of the Gold Cup in Berkshire on Thursday, but came off second-best after a pulsating battle with Michael Bell's Big Orange.

Bell immediately confirmed his star stayer would bid for a third successive victory in the Goodwood Cup on August 1 and O'Brien will consider sending his charge for a rematch.

"Order Of St George seems fine and we'll see how he is in the next week to 10 days," said the Ballydoyle handler.

"He does have the option of going to Goodwood, but we will just see how he is.

"It was a tough finish in the Gold Cup, but they are all tough finishes at Ascot."

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Coolmore Aidan & Ryan in Royal Ascot Champions Clean Sweep

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Coolmore and Ballydoyle overcame a slow start to the five-day Royal Ascot spectacular by scooping the three end-of-meeting awards.

The unstoppable combination of trainer Aidan O'Brien, jockey Ryan Moore and owners Coolmore won their respective titles despite drawing a blank on the first day.

The ever-reliable Highland Reel got the ball rolling in the Prince of Wales's Stakes on Wednesday, with Sioux Nation in the Norfolk Stakes their sole success on Thursday when Order Of St George suffered a narrow defeat in his bid for back-to-back victories in the Gold Cup.

It was business as normal on Friday with the brilliant pair of Caravaggio in the Commonwealth Cup and Winter in the Coronation Stakes justifying their prohibitive odds.

Even so, Coolmore went into Saturday's final day trailing Godolphin by two winners. They managed to get those with September in the Chesham Stakes and Idaho in the Hardwicke.

With Godolphin drawing a blank, Coolmore went to the top on the back of better placed performances.

O'Brien, winning the Qipco-sponsored trainers' award for the eighth time, and for the third year in succession, said: "I am delighted for everybody really. A lot of people put in a lot of hard work day in day out so I am delighted for everyone really.

"We always hope and we try and have the horses ready and that is all you can ever do really. You don't ever expect anything.

"They are all very important. I suppose Caravaggio would be the one as he had only had the one easy run. He has always excited everyone, It was a tough race and the second and third were two good horses."

Derrick Smith, one of the Coolmore owners along with Michael Tabor and Sue Magnier, said: " We were well behind at first and we have come from way back.

"I was with Justin Rose and I said to him we were four down at the turn and we made a comeback. This is the first time it has happened and it is an honour to get it.

"We always say if we come to Ascot and have three winners we are happy. Above three is a big bonus so when we get four, five and six winners we are very happy.

"I suppose Caravaggio would be the best of them because of the potential he has got. After that it would be Highland Reel as he is a great favourite of mine. Whenever you have a winner at Ascot it is special, though."

Ryan Moore ran out a convincing winner in the Champions Jockey title.

A.P.O'Brien Top Earning Horses In Training Updated

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A.P.O'Brien Season Earnings Updated

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Spanish Steps off the mark at Gowran

Spanish Steps ran out an easy winner of the Join Our Racing Club Maiden, providing his trainer Aidan O'Brien with a double on the card (earlier successful with Rostropovich).

Eighth on his debut last October, the son of Galileo was third on his return to action at Navan in May, filling the runner-up spot when odds-on on his most recent outing at Cork last Sunday.

Sent off the 11/10 favourite this afternoon he raced in third early, before he was soon switched to the outer and sent to the front.

He was ridden and stretched clear from the two furlong pole, keeping on well to win easily by ten lengths.

Newcomer Dawn Choir finished second under Declan McDonogh for Ellmarie Holden at 10/1, while the 6/4 second favourite Switch In Time was a disappointing fourth.

Donnacha O'Brien said afterwards: "He should have won the last day (at Cork) but didn't get it in the stewards' room and made amends today."

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes

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Rostropovich off the mark at Gowran

Healey Racing Photos

25.06

The Aidan O'Brien trained Rostropovich justified strong market confidence to take the opener at Gowran, the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden.

Seventh of twelve on debut at Leopardstown last month, the son of Frankel was available at 4/1 in early shows, but that price was quickly snapped up.

He opened on-course at 10/11, touching evens, before going off the clear favourite at 5/6 under Seamie Heffernan.

Settled behind the leader, the bay colt was pushed along in third from two furlongs out. He was ridden to challenge between horses at the furlong pole, and soon hit the front, keeping on well to score by half a length.

The front-running Medal Of Honour (13/2), who finished ahead of the selection when they met at Leopardstown, had to settle for second under Donnacha O'Brien for his brother Joseph.

Port Lions (3/1) completed the placings another length and a half back in third under Shane Foley for Mick Halford.

The winner was bought for 1.1 million guineas at Tattersalls last October, and he is a half-brother to Group 1 winner and now successful stallion Zoffany.

Seamie Heffernan said afterwards: "Ryan (Moore) liked him the first day and Aidan said he'd come on plenty so we were hoping for him to run well and he did.

"It wasn't a typical Irish race in that we went nice to halfway and then we were racing and I knew I had the better of the horse on my inside (runner-up Medal Of Honour).

"I don't think he has yet been asked if he's a speed horse or stayer so I'm not sure about his trip but seven furlongs or a mile should be no problem to him."

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes

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Idaho joins his bro as a Royal Ascot Winner

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Aidan O'Brien's Idaho roared back to his best with victory in the Group Two Hardwicke Stakes at Royal Ascot.

The Queen's Dartmouth finished a fading fourth as Idaho claimed top honours in the Hardwicke Stakes at Royal Ascot.

The Sir Michael Stoute-trained Dartmouth carried Her Majesty's silks to a memorable victory in the Group Two contest 12 months ago and was the 9/4 favourite to repeat the feat in the hands of Ryan Moore.

For much of the mile-and-a-half journey everything seemed to be going according to plan, with Dartmouth getting a nice lead from the front-running Dal Harraild.

The crowd cheered as Dartmouth travelled powerfully into the home straight, but his effort was relatively short lived and he was ultimately well-beaten in fourth.

Aidan O'Brien's Idaho, a full-brother to Wednesday's Prince of Wales's Stakes winner Highland Reel, was sent off at 9/2 under Seamie Heffernan.

The four-year-old followed Dartmouth to the two-furlong marker before being asked to go about his business and he galloped all the way to the line to score by half a length.

Barsanti finished strongly on the outside of the field to finish second ahead of Chemical Charge in third.

The win sealed top trainer honours for the week for O'Brien.

Idaho was cut to 7/1 by Sky Bet for the King George VI Stakes back at Ascot next month.

Idaho slipped up when odds-on favourite in the St Leger in September and was last seen finishing sixth behind Highland Reel in the Coronation Cup at Epsom. O'Brien said: "We're delighted. He's a full-brother to Highland Reel and we always loved him. It was his first run of the year in the Coronation Cup. He only arrived at the track an hour before and he was very upset.

"He was very unlucky in the St Leger last year when he unseated Seamus, you couldn't believe it, he was coming down the straight on the bridle.

"He's by Galileo and they don't know when to stop improving or stop trying. It's very possible he'll progress, there's plenty of races for him. I think he gets a mile and a half well, he galloped out very well and those races are open to him.

"It (King George) is a possibility for him, the lads will decide what they want to do in a week or 10 days, but it's a very strong possibility. Seamus gave him a peach of a ride, he's a world-class rider. He timed his run to perfection."

On being crowned leading trainer, O'Brien added: "We're obviously in a very privileged position to be working with such people and horses. It's a lot of hard work by a lot of people day in and day out.

"I'm very lucky to be able to go home every night (from Ascot). We're at home at 8.30pm every night and it's great to be able to do it. We look forward to going home, seeing the horses in the morning and then come racing. It's marvellous really."

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Scintillating September at Royal Ascot

Aidan O'Brien claimed his fifth Royal Ascot winner of the week as September justified favouritism in the Chesham Stakes.

September ran down gallant front-runner Nyaleti to justify 11/8 favouritism in the Listed Chesham Stakes.

Aidan O'Brien's filly left a big impression when making a successful debut at Leopardstown earlier in the month and was the 11/8 market leader for the opening contest on the final day of the Royal meeting.

Mark Johnston's Nyaleti, bidding to follow up a debut win at Salisbury just six days ago, set a strong gallop from the off and had the majority of the field in trouble soon after halfway in the seven furlong event.

Masar moved into second but couldn't latch on to the leader, while September was just getting rolling for Ryan Moore and steadily wore down the pace-setter before drawing two and a quarter lengths clear for an ultimately convincing success.

Nyaleti battle bravely all the way to the line and held on to second from Masar by a short head.

Sky Bet make September 5/1 (from 14s) for the 1000 Guineas next year and also cut the well-bred daughter of Deep Impact from 25/1 to 6/1 for the Oaks and PR Racing Manager Michael Shinners said: "September may need further than a mile next season but she was pretty impressive against the colts and has gone straight to the top of the market for the fillies' Classics at Newmarket and Epsom next year."

Ryan Moore: "She travelled like the winner the whole way, the Johnston horse went a good gallop and kept going, but I was always confident I would win. Her mother (Peeping Fawn) got better with racing and she's definitely got some of her talent.

"You couldn't ask for a better pedigree and as she goes further she'll get better."

Aidan O'Brien, who struck 12 months ago in the Chesham with subsequent dual 2000 Guineas winner Churchill, said: "You'd be delighted with her. She's out of Peeping Fawn by Deep Impact, so she's bred absolutely in the purple.

"She has a massive engine. She's a great traveller and quickens really well. She was very impressive in Leopardstown and what's unusual about her is she's not a very big filly, but she thinks she's big - she has a big personality.

"Like those real good ones, she has a big presence about her. She could be anything really. I think she was the first two-year-old that we had that won first time out this year. It's very exciting."

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Minding & Rhododendron News Update

Aidan O'Brien had news of last season's superstar filly Minding, who was forced to miss Ascot having suffered a setback before an intended run in the Tattersalls Gold Cup.

"She's good. She's back on long reins on Monday for three weeks and then hopefully she'll be ready to ride again, and then it will probably take a couple of months after that [before she runs again]."

Rhododendron's okay, a little bit quiet in herself. We'll go gentle and wait for her for a couple of weeks."

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Winter leads home Ballydoyle 1 2 3 in Coronation Stakes

Winter wins the Coronation Stakes

Winter led home an Aidan O'Brien-trained one-two-three with victory in the Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot.

Winter led home an Aidan O'Brien-trained one-two-three with victory in Friday's Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot.

Formerly trained by the now-retired David Wachman, the grey daughter of Galileo has taken her form to new levels since switching to O'Brien's all-conquering yard and has developed into the dominant force in the three-year-old fillies division over a mile.

She was sent off the odds-on favourite after easy wins the 1000 Guineas at Newmarket and the Irish version at the Curragh, and she proved different class with a two and a quarter lengths success.

The icing on the cake for O'Brien, who was completing a Group One double on the day following Caravaggio's Commonwealth Cup victory earlier in the day, was that Winter's stable companions Roly Poly and Hydrangea followed her home in second and third.

Ryan Moore said: "She was only doing what she had to do. She travelled beautifully through the race and was very professional, but she was just doing what she had to I think.

"It's a hard thing to do to win two Guineas and then come here, but she's with a trainer who can do magic things. It's very hard to do what she's done, but she's good. She's beaten some good fillies from France and America and this is a strong piece of form."

Aidan O'Brien said: "She's a filly who is thriving from race-to-race, she travelled well, Ryan had her in a lovely position and she's won very well.

"She gets the trip very well, she's very classy and is a great traveller. When you ask her she gallops out strong. Physically she's thriving, David (Wachman, former trainer) always thought the world of her last year and now she's thriving race-to-race."

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Caravaggio all Class in Commonwealth

Caravaggio wins the Commonwealth Cup

Caravaggio came out on top in a thrilling battle for the Commonwealth Cup on day four at Royal Ascot.

Caravaggio came out on top in a thrilling three-way battle for the Group One Commonwealth Cup.

The odds-on favourite, unbeaten in his first five starts for trainer Aidan O'Brien, reared significantly a second or two before the stalls opened and his restlessness may have resulted in him ending up racing a little further back in the 12-runner field than jockey Ryan Moore may have ideally preferred.

Caravaggio's stablemate Intelligence Cross took them along but he was soon brushed aside as second-favourite Harry Angel cruised to the front, tracked closely by fellow Godolphin representative Blue Point.

The pair moved on with a couple of furlongs to travel and Moore got to work on Caravaggio, who picked up stylishly to close the gap on the leaders and then forge ahead towards the far rail in the closing stages.

Harry Angel battled bravely to hold on to second under Adam Kirby, in doing so reversing recent Ascot form with the William Buick-ridden Blue Point, but the classy grey Caravaggio was well on top at the line and passed the post three quarters of a length in front.

The big trio pulled nicely clear of American challenger Bound For Nowhere.

Aidan O'Brien: "He's obviously a brilliant horse. It was only his second run back and we've been afraid to do too much because we didn't want to lose that brilliance that he has. Ryan gave him a brilliant ride and his change of pace is unbelievable.

"Ryan was very confident in him, he said he was just going to pop him out and let it happen and that's exactly what he did, he said he'd come there very late and that's exactly what he did.

"He's very quick - I don't think we've ever had a quicker horse. It was a big step up from his first run at Naas. We knew it was against three-year-olds today but it will be older horses next time.

"I'd imagine the July Cup is what the lads would be thinking of."

When asked if he could drop back to five furlongs at some stage, O'Brien quipped: "He could drop down to three!"

Ryan Moore: "I think that was a proper race, he's beaten two very good horses there. There's quite a head wind and it's hard to make up ground in it today and yesterday. They made him work but he was going away at the end. They were very good horses in front of me and they weren't stopping.

"I think that was a very good performance as he's beaten two very good horses. He's a good colt. I ride Limato on Saturday so we'll see how he matches up to the older ones, but that was a very good race."

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A.P.O'Brien 57 Royal Ascot Victories

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A.P.O'Brien Top Earning Horses In Training Updated

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Royal Ascot Race Wins Updated

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Order of St George 2nd in the Ascot Gold Cup - What a race he was beat by a nostril George was so brave

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Orderofthegarter 2nd Taj Mahal 4th in the Hampton Court Stakes Group 3

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Sioux takes the Norfolk

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The Aidan O'Brien trained outsider Sioux Nation won the Norfolk Stakes at Royal Ascot under Ryan Moore.

Sioux Nation provided his sire Scat Daddy with a third Royal Ascot winner and his jockey Ryan Moore with a third of the week in the Norfolk Stakes.

The majority of the field headed towards the stands' side, where most of the action unfolded on the first two days, with American raider McErin taking them along.

Four, including the winner, stayed to the far side and Moore later revealed that he thought that group was always ahead as they filled three of the first five places.

McErin was soon swamped by the pack as first Cardsharp and then Santry, trained in Yorkshire by Declan Carroll, burst through to the lead.

The latter went clear on the stands' rail but Sioux Nation had done the same on the other side of the course and as they passed the line, it was clear that the Aidan O'Brien trained colt had done enough.

The winning margin was half a length with Cardsharp a further length and a half adrift in third.

Aidan O'Brien: "It's the pace that they have [progeny of Scat Daddy] making them different, it's pure raw speed. He's a massive horse, a big powerful horse and to be doing this at this time of his career is incredible really.

"He was travelling very well and I think he was trying to stall getting there, Ryan, but he paced it brilliantly. To get cover like he did with only three horses was brilliant."

Ryan Moore: "To be fair, the ground is probably even everywhere. I wouldn't read too much into the track or the draw, it's just where the pace was on the first couple of days. The pace was the other side today and that's the difference.

"This is a very good colt. When I rode him first time - you can see how big he is - he just needed the run. He's had ground go against him since and on good, fast ground today, he always travelled like the winner. He needs fast ground.

"He was a bit lonely there on his own, but he's a very good colt."

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Aidan Can't Wait for Caravaggio Commonwealth Run

22.06

Last year's Coventry Stakes winner Caravaggio returns to Royal Ascot for the Commonwealth Cup on Friday.

Aidan O'Brien has always spoken in glowing terms about the unbeaten colt and there was even a chance that he would be stepped up in trip for a crack at the Guineas.

Connections resisted that temptation and it looked a wise decision when he displayed all of his characteristic speed on his return to action in a Group Three at Naas.

O'Brien said: "We always thought he was a brilliantly fast horse and we just did not risk losing that brilliance by trying to extend him over too far, even though he never showed us that he wouldn't get further than sprint distances.

"I think it (the Commonwealth Cup) was a wonderful idea. It's a great race to have now. When you have a brilliantly fast two-year-old it gives you an option.

"We were delighted with Caravaggio last year and had been looking forward to getting him started this season. We were very happy with him at Naas and everything has gone smooth since.

"He's a very classy horse with a good temperament. He's very relaxed. It's a competitive race and we are looking forward to our horse running."

The race, restricted to three-year-olds, forms part of the sprint category in the Qipco Champions Series.

Charlie Appleby thinks a great deal of Blue Point, who made a most impressive return to action at Ascot last month.

The Godolphin trainer said: "We have been very happy with Blue Point since he won the Pavilion Stakes and have been looking forward to this race.

"His preparation has been great and he has conditions to suit.

"He holds the track record and it should be a good burn-up."

Harry Angel finished second in the Pavilion Stakes but was then a very impressive winner of the Sandy Lane at Haydock - so much so that Godolphin bought him.

"Despite his lack of experience, I am upbeat about his chances," Cox told www.godolphin.com

"He is really growing in confidence. I'm thrilled with the feeling he is giving us since he broke the track record in the Sandy Lane Stakes at Haydock on his last start.

"I honestly think Harry Angel is very good. I've always had a lot of confidence in his ability and he's still not the finished article.

"He's shown a lot of greenness in his behaviour in the stalls. But I think we've got a serious performer."

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Reeler bags Aidan's 300th G1 Victory.

Picture from Kevin Buckley

Highland Reel produced another teak-tough performance to run out an authoritative winner of the Prince Of Wales's Stakes at Royal Ascot.

Only 19 days after his Coronation Cup triumph at Epsom, the globetrotting five-year-old looked to be in trouble as Ulysses briefly hit the front at the furlong pole.

However the son of Galileo found more for pressure and Ryan Moore punched him clear again to score by a length-and-a-quarter.

Decorated Knight came through to claim the forecast spot while favourite Jack Hobbs never threatened to land a blow from the rear of the field.

Reaction

Ryan Moore: "He's so tough, he's got a marvellous attitude, so many came at him there.

"This lad has been everywhere but he keeps coming back. It was a tough performance at Epsom (Coronation Cup) and another one today, he's so brave and I'd say that was probably a career best.

"Fair play to Aidan to keep bringing him back. He had a difficult day at Epsom but to come here and win, it's a massive performance. We knew he'd see it out really well."

Aidan O'Brien said: "He's a brilliant horse and Ryan gave him a brilliant ride. Davy and Andrew were happy with him at home and they were really looking forward to it. We're delighted.

"Seamus (Heffernan) was very happy with his work and David who rides him every day was over the moon with him. He's unbelievable.

"He's just an incredible horse - pace, courage, speed, he has everything, he's a great horse.

"He's won't stop, he's so quick tactically and so brave. He stays a mile and a half well but won over seven at two so he's always had that pace."

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Winter faces 6 in the Coronation stakes

21.06

Dual Classic heroine Winter is the stand-out contender in the Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot on Friday.

The Aidan O'Brien-trained filly has already won the English and Irish Guineas and has scared off a good chunk of the opposition in the Group One over a mile.

Just six other horses have been declared for the Coronation Stakes, two of which being Winter's stablemates Hydrangea and Roly Poly.

Precieuse, trained by Fabrice Chappet, was supplemented for the race after winning the French 1000 Guineas.

John Gosden has declared Dabyah, who looked really smart on her return to action at Newbury in April.

North American trainer Mark Casse gives La Coronel the chance to shine, with Roger Varian represented by the in-form Tomyris.

Caravaggio faces 12 in the Commonwealth Cup

21.06

Caravaggio is one of 12 declarations for what looks a superb renewal of the Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot on Friday.

Aidan O'Brien's gifted colt is unbeaten in five starts and has been the long-time ante-post favourite for the Group One over six furlongs.

O'Brien will also saddle Intelligence Cross.

Caravaggio is unlikely to have it all his own way, though, as Harry Angel excelled on his last start at Haydock and has been declared by Clive Cox, who will also be represented by Tis Marvellous.

Old Time Waltz off the mark at Naas

©Healy Racing Photos

20.06 Aidan O’Brien’s nine runners at Royal Ascot today failed to yield a winner but the Champion Trainer didn’t leave empty-handed on the day as his final runner, Old Time Waltz, made a winning handicap debut at Naas today in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF (Fillies) Handicap. Ridden by the trainer's daughter Ana O’Brien, the daughter of War Front went clear of her rivals in the straight before claiming a length and a half win over Fascinating Lady. Following the win jockey O’Brien, who is seeking to become just the second successful winning jockey at Royal Ascot on Asking in the Sandringham Handicap tomorrow, stated “she's a lazy little one and you have to try and make up her mind for her. “It's great to get a win into her as she's a well-bred filly. She's tough and kept at it well.” Quotes from Gary Carson

A.P.O'Brien Season Earnings Updated

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Leading Sires Tables Updated

Puppetshow off the Mark at Limerick

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Donnacha O’Brien completed a double at Limerick as Puppetshow benefitted from a confident ride to open her account in the Croom Maiden.

The Galileo filly had gone close on a number of occasions including when beaten less than a length here earlier this season, and gained a valuable winning bracket on her sixth start.

The 9/4 chance was held up towards rear in this mile event and switched out under two furlongs.

She picked up really well on the outer, and only needed to be pushed out with hands and heels to beat the well-backed 15/8 favourite Breeze by a length and a quarter.

Maroon was a further three lengths away in third.

O’Brien was partnering this winner for his father Aidan, and earlier was on the mark aboard 5/4 favourite Band Of Outlaws, trained by his brother Joseph, in the two-year-old auction maiden.

Donnacha said, "She is a filly with plenty of ability and is much better than them but the thing was to get her to relax and do things right.

"It worked out nicely; she was the best filly in the race, and when you are going that well you'll find the gaps. I'd imagine finding black-type will be the plan with her."

(TW & AM)

Auckland continues to progress

Auckland and Seamie Heffernan
©Healy Racing PhotosFor the third time in succession Auckland ran at a Leopardstown summer evening fixture and the Galileo colt's most recent form figures now read 121 after his victory in the Jerry Fish Electric Sideshow Handicap.

Returning quickly after a second placing seven days ago, Auckland was bigger earlier and he found 2/1 favouritism from 5/2 on track.

He got the better of Rock In Peace inside the last and though Allography and Nimitz finished off well, Auckland only needed to be pushed out to score by half a length and a length and a half.

"They went a bit quicker in that race and I got a gap when I wanted," said winning jockey Seamie Heffernan on Ballydoyle's Auckland.

"He is what he is I suppose but he won well."

(GC & EM)

Rhododendron heads to France in 3rd Classic bid

©Healy Racing Photos

15.06

1000 Guineas and Epsom Oaks runner-up Rhododendron will take on 15 rivals in the Prix de Diane at Chantilly on Sunday.

Aidan O'Brien's daughter of Galileo looked an unlucky loser at Newmarket and ran another fine race when only finding Enable too strong at Epsom.

Shutter Speed, who beat stablemate Enable at Newbury earlier in the season, will ensure John Gosden is strongly represented once more.

The Khalid Abdullah-owned filly has been seriously impressive so far this season and was much too strong for her rivals in the Musidora Stakes at York last time.

The British challenger will not find things easy, however, with Freddy Head's Terrakova leading the home charge.

Unbeaten in two starts to date, she is regally bred being by Galileo out of the great racemare Goldikova.

Andre Fabre, always to be respected, is responsible for Godolphin's Kitesurf with the Flaxman Stables-owned Senga.

Maryline Eon will become the first female jockey to ride in the race when she teams up with Yellow Storm.

Highland Reel and Wings of Eagles both Entered in the King George

Last year's winner Highland Reel and Derby hero Wings Of Eagles are among Aidan O'Brien's 11 entries for the King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot on July 29

The midsummer highlight could also be on the agenda for John Gosden's Oaks winner Enable and stablemates Jack Hobbs and Cracksman.

There is an international flavour with South American star Sixties Song, trained by Alfredo Gaitan.

The Argentine trainer said: "The track is beautiful, but obviously it is a very undulating track, which is a bit of a worry, if only because our horse has not really encountered it.

"I don't really know the opposition, even though I have watched the Derby, so I have seen Wings of Eagles and Cracksman.

"This is a great opportunity and a real honour and we are grateful to everyone who has made this possible.

"No horse from South America has ever attempted to come over and run in a race like this and we are all very excited.

"It is something unique and very special."

Ulysses, Dartmouth, Thunder Snow and Eminent all feature among 42 entries

11 entered in King George from Ballydoyle - Alluringly Cliffs of Moher Douglas MacArthur Highland Reel Idaho Johannes Vermeer Order Of St George Rhododendron Sir John Lavery US Army Ranger Wings of Eagles.

Latest Sires Tables Updated

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A.P.O'Brien Season Earnings Update

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Ballydoyle Trio In French Oaks Mix

12.06

Aidan O'Brien has left three fillies in the Prix de Diane at Chantilly.

The Ballydoyle handler can call upon his 1000 Guineas and Oaks runner-up Rhododendron, as well as Roly Poly and Pocketfullofdreams.

Freddy Head has high hopes for Terrakova in Sunday's Group One heat, which is also known as the French Oaks. and she is also among 24 fillies still in the mix.

By champion sire Galileo and out of Head's great race mare Goldikova, s o far Terrakova is living up to her pedigree, winning a maiden on her only start at two before overcoming trouble in running to win a Group Three on her return at Saint-Cloud.

Head has always had this race in mind for his unbeaten filly, but feels she will stay further later in the campaign.

"I think she is very good," said Head.

"She's got a good cruising speed but also she can quicken.

"I know the family well, they are not too precocious so I didn't want to over-face her last season.

"For the moment 10 furlongs is her trip, but she finished off her last race very strongly and I'm confident she'll stay a mile and a half.

"She didn't have the clearest of runs that day but she found another gear, she's smart.

"I've also left another filly in, Listen In, but I'm not sure she'll run. I just want to see who else is running first."

John Gosden's Shutter Speed, winner of the Musidora at York last month, is one of just two British-trained possibles at this stage along with Charlie Appleby's Sobetsu, who was a Group One winner in France last month but disappointed in the Oaks at Epsom.

New Coolmore Poster - Adelaide By Galileo

Reeler Gets a Cox Plate invitation

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09.06

Highland Reel has been invited By the Moonee Valley Racing Club to Australia's premier Weight for age race where he could be set for a rematch with Aussie superstar mare Winx.

Highland Reel now a five-time Group 1 winner finished third behind Winx when she won the first of her two Cox Plates in 2015 and the Chris Waller-trained mare is aiming to make history with a third successive victory. Aidan won the race with Adelaide in 2014.

It seems more likely that Highland Reel will attempt to defend his Breeders Cup Turf Title the Breeders Cup is just one week after the Cox plate so it would have to be one or the other.

September shines on debut

08.06

She could hardly have more eye-catching parents in Deep Impact and Peeping Fawn and September herself could hardly have been more eye-catching with the manner of her debut success in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Maiden (Plus 10 Race) at Leopardstown.

Nine to two joint favourite with her Ballydoyle stable companion Easter Lily (4th), September was on a different level under Seamie Heffernan as she skipped away inside the final furlong for a five and a half length win over Himmah.

Gamble of the contest Reehaab (20/1 into 6/1) could manage only sixth place.

"I think that's the first one we've had that's won first time out (this season). She's bred to be okay and I'd say she's okay as she gave me a good feeling," said Heffernan.

"Ours can work really really well at home and then on their first runs can disappoint but that's just the way they are. I'd say she has an engine alright."

The ground was changed from yielding to yielding to soft after this race.

(GC & EM)

Healy Racing photos

Reeler is catching them

Are You Ready?

Aidan Outlines Royal Ascot & Future Plans

07.06

"We think Wings Of Eagles is a very good horse, likely to go Irish Derby. With Cliffs Of Moher, we said before he ran at Chester he might not get ten furlongs but we were always going to give him a chance to stay at Epsom. He quickened very well, ran a very big race and we'll look at the Eclipse. We are delighted with them all, including Capri, and Capri would have an Irish Derby or Royal Ascot option.

Highland Reel is a seasoned, hardened horse and traveller. We'll look at Royal Ascot. With Rhododendron we are not sure. There's the Irish Oaks, French Oaks and Pretty Polly. The race was a full mile and a half and the winner is a very good filly.

Also for there we have Churchill, Winter and Order Of St George, who may be joined in the Gold Cup by Kingfisher. He's being trained for that.

Murillo and Declarationofpeace are considered for the Coventry; Clemmie who ran in the Curragh maiden in which she was third is a possibility for Royal Ascot too."

Timeform Global Rankings European Division Ballydoyle Spotlight & News

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Aidan on the verge of 300 Group/Grade One Victories

Wings of Eagles & Padraig Beggy - Epsom Derby Winners 2017

Leading Sires Tables Updated

A.P.O'Brien Season Earnings updated

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Well on course

Acapulco could have Royal Ascot prep this weekend at The Curragh

06.06

Acapulco is one of 19 entries in the TRM Ballyogan Stakes at the Curragh on Sunday.

The four-year-old filly made an impressive winning start for Aidan O'Brien at the Curragh last month but was then forced to miss the Greenlands Stakes at the same track as she developed a temperature.

Acapulco, who won the Queen Mary Stakes at Royal Ascot two years ago when trained in America by Wesley Ward, is one of six O'Brien entries in the Group Three over six furlongs.

Alphabet, Asking, Elizabeth Browning, Music Box and Smoulder are still engaged by the Ballydoyle operation.

28 from Ballydoyle in National Stakes including Rangers Bro

06.06

Aidan O'Brien, seeking a fourth straight National Stakes success and a 12th overall, has entered 28 horses, among them Royal Ascot fancy Declarationofpeace and Murillo, who impressed on his second start at Tipperary.

Also among the Ballydoyle contingent is the unraced Ancient City, a three-parts brother by Frankel to last year's Epsom Derby runner-up US Army Ranger.

18 from Ballydoyle entered in Moyglare including Mindings sis

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06.06

Aidan O'Brien has made 18 entries in the 2017 Moyglare Stud Stakes Group One and they include Clemmie, a full-sister to Churchill who went close to winning at the first time of asking at the Curragh late last month.

The unraced Conquest is a full-sister to Minding, the 2015 Moyglare winner, while Happily is a full-sister to Gleneagles and Magical is a full-sister to Rhododendron.

Music Box off the mark at Gowran

05.06

Music Box made it fourth time lucky but not before getting a fright from Conversely. In the end she prevailed by two lengths and they drew fourteen lengths clear of the third home, Gin Rocks.

"She's been a bit unlucky really as she's bumped into a few good horses," said the winning rider.

"She did it nicely in the end. She's a fine big strong mare and got through the ground.

"She still got a bit wound up beforehand but throughout the race she was good and she calmed down a bit after it as well. She's learning from the racing."

Wonderful pictures from Our friend Gerry's Visit to Epsom on Friday & Saturday

Rhododendron

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Idaho in front Reeler behind

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Idaho

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Cliffs Of Moher

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Wings Of Eagles & Capri

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Wings Of Eagles

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Douglas MacArthur

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Capri

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Venice Beach

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The Anvil

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The Derby

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Huge Thanks to Gerry

Wings soars to Derby Glory

The 40/1 outsider Wings Of Eagles stunned his rivals in the 238th running of the Investec Derby at Epsom.

4.30 Epsom - Investec Derby

1st Wings Of Eagles (40/1)
2nd Cliffs Of Moher (5/1)
3rd Cracksman (7/2 favourite

The 40/1 outsider Wings Of Eagles stunned his rivals in the 238th running of the Investec Derby at Epsom.

It was a sixth winner in the race for trainer Aidan O'Brien but few expected it to be the colt ridden by Padraig Beggy who was having his first ride in the race.

Beaten by stablemate Venice Beach in the Chester Vase on his seasonal reappearance, he comfortably reversed that form as he swooped late to silence the crowd.

Ballydoyle stablemates Douglas Macarthur and The Anvil cut out the early pace but were ignored by the chasing pack as they opened up a lead of at least six lengths.

That had been halved as they raced down the hill towards Tattenham Corner where Cracksman appeared ill at ease under Frankie Dettori.

Dettori soon had the favourite in top gear though and he went in pursuit of Douglas Macarthur who didn't weaken until approaching the furlong pole but by that time Cliffs Of Moher and Eminent had also joined issue.

The three market principals were stunned, however, as Wings Of Eagles, who had only two behind him with three furlongs to run, swooped late in the centre of the track to write his and his jockey's name in the history books.

Stablemate Cliffs Of Moher followed him home, ahead of Frankel colts Cracksman and Eminent with Benbatl back in fifth, rewarding their backers with online bookmakers Sky Bet who paid five places for each-way bets.

Sky Bet's Racing PR Manager Michael Shinners commented: "The open nature of this year’s Investec Derby meant we were able to pay 5 places.

"The result was certainly not expected by punters as we laid a number of horses in the race but not Wings Of Eagles. The places were reasonably good despite Cracksman and Cliffs Of Moher finishing second and third and this has to go down as a bookmaker friendly result."

The result also put paid to the hopes of the remaining players in the free to play £100,000 Sporting Life Pick 7 game.

Padraig Beggy: "That's my first ride, but when you're riding one for Aidan you don't worry about the price, they always have a chance. I had a bit of bad luck in running but probably got there at the right time in the end.

"A furlong down I thought if I get a run I'd win, I knew Ryan had gone, but in fairness to the big horse his best furlong is his last, which makes a big difference. I don't get to sit on many beasts like this at the races, so I'm going to enjoy it.

"I'd nearly given up on the big days, but Aidan O'Brien has made it happen. It's happy days."

A.P.O'Brien Season Earnings updated

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A.P.O'Brien Top Earners 2017

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A.P.O'Brien Year by Year Stats Updated

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A.P.O'Brien Career Stats Updated

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Coolmore English Classic Wins

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A'.P.O'Brien English Classic wins

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Ballydoyle Classic Wins

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2 New Coolmore Posters - Holy Roman Emperor Smart 2YO's & No Nay Never

Warrior Reeler fights em off to win an 8th Coronation Cup for Aidan O'Brien - Full report pictures & videos below

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Travel problems following a technical fault with their plane meant that Aidan O'Brien's team for Investec Oaks day at Epsom didn't arrive until hours before the start of racing but a troubled morning made no difference to Highland Reel's performance on the track.

Allowed an easy lead in the early stages of the Group One with Godolphin pair Hawkbill and Prize Money content to track Ryan Moore, the five-year-old travelled smoothly through the early stages of the mile and a half contest.

Hawkbill laid it down to Highland Reel fully two furlongs from home and appeared to get his head in front but his stamina ebbed away and the eventual winner went on again.

Frontiersman, also owned by Godolphin, finished strongly from off the pace and looked as though he might mug the leader close home only to hang badly under James Doyle on the famous camber, consequently failing to lay down a challenge, eventually finishing a length and three quarters adrift in second.

Aidan O'Brien told ITV Racing: "Delighted with him because obviously they went through a lot. Ryan gave him a great ride. Delighted for everybody. He hadn't run since Dubai (in March), but he was brilliant.

"What happened this morning was unavoidable, the lads were doing their best and everyone was doing their best and things just weren't running smoothly. It's just thanks to everyone, Pat (Keating, travelling head lad) was delighted when he got him here and tacked up and he was very happy. It's a big team effort and I couldn't be thankful enough to them all for making it happen.

"He's an amazing horse, tough, tactical speed and he stays. He's an amazing horse really."

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A.P.O'Brien Career Stats Updated

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A.P.O'Brien Year by Year Stats Updated

A.P.O'Brien Season Earnings Updated

A.P.O'Brien Top Earners and All time top earners updated

Rhododendron 2nd Alluringly 3rd in the Epsom Oaks Pocketfullofdreams unplaced all pictured below in the parade ring at Epsom. Thanks to David Robinson.

Highland Reel US Army Ranger & Idaho in the Epsom Parade Ring

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Moher leads Ballydoyle Derby squad

02.06

Cliffs of Moher leads a six-strong Aidan O'Brien team into battle for the Investec Derby at Epsom on Saturday.

The Galileo colt slammed talented stablemate Orderofthegarter on his final juvenile appearance at Leopardstown and warmed up for Epsom with victory in the Dee Stakes at Chester.

Cliffs Of Moher is the chosen mount of dual Derby-winning jockey Ryan Moore.

O'Brien, who has saddled five previous winners of the race, said: "We were a little bit worried with him going to Chester as he had a very soft run the first time and won very easily on his second run as a two-year-old.

"We were just hoping that we'd be able to get a run into him and find that he could go to the Derby.

"He was a little bit slowly away (at Chester) and Ryan got him into a good position fairly quick.

"He was a little bit green on the bend and into the straight and picked up really well in the last half a furlong.

"He's a horse that always showed plenty of pace, so we weren't even sure about going up to a mile and a half, but he galloped out well to the line at Chester."

O'Brien is also represented by Douglas Macarthur (Colm O'Donoghue) and Capri (Seamie Heffernan), who were first and third in the Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial.

Chester Vase one-two-three, Venice Beach (Donnacha O'Brien), Wings Of Eagles (Padraig Beggy) and The Anvil (Ana O'Brien), also take their chance.

He said: "The Derrinstown two, their preparations have gone very well. They came forward from their first to their second run and we think, and hope, that they should come forward again.

"Douglas Macarthur is a horse we always thought would stay more than a mile and a quarter and that is what he showed at Leopardstown when he came back on the line and put his head down in front. He will improve for going the mile and a half.

"Capri has had two runs this year. He ran first time in the Ballysax and we were very happy with his run. Then he progressed nicely to his second run. Everything seems to be fine since with him.

"The three horses that ran in the (Chester) Vase are solid mile-and-a-half horses. They will get the mile and a half well and they might get further."

3 For Ballydoyle In Prix Du Jockey Club

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01.06

Brametot will attempt a Guineas and Derby double when he lines up in the Qipco Prix du Jockey Club at Chantilly on Sunday.

Jean-Claude Rouget's colt won the French 2000 Guineas at Deauville three weeks ago and will renew rivalry with Rivet, who was third that day and will be ridden by Frankie Dettori in stall four.

Godolphin have three runners - Andre Fabre's Soleil Marin and the Charlie Appleby-trained duo of D'Bai and Bay Of Poets.

Ryan Moore will ride Aidan O'Brien's War Decree, with Taj Mahal (Donnacha O'Brien) and Orderofthegarter (Seamie Heffernan) also running for Ballydoyle.

Recoletos, Waldgeist, Plumatic and Be My Sheriff make up the 12-strong field.