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Cellini Roars to Irish Derby Victory After Epsom Scare
29 Jun
Summary
- Benvenuto Cellini won the Irish Derby after a controversial non-runner status at Epsom.
- Trainer Aidan O'Brien secured his 18th Irish Derby win, a fourth consecutive victory.
- The race saw a dominant one-two-three finish for Aidan O'Brien's stable.
Benvenuto Cellini redeemed a controversial Epsom non-runner status with a commanding victory in the Irish Derby at the Curragh. This win marked Aidan O'Brien's 18th triumph in the race and his fourth consecutive win. The Ballydoyle stable achieved a dominant one-two-three finish, with stablemates Christmas Day and Pierre Bonnard following Benvenuto Cellini home.
Jockey Ryan Moore expressed satisfaction with Benvenuto Cellini's performance, highlighting the horse's quality despite a challenging Epsom outing. Moore noted the unusual circumstances at Epsom and expressed belief in the entire stable's strength, as demonstrated by the top three finish. He confirmed his decision to ride Benvenuto Cellini was based on faith in the horse's potential.
Trainer Aidan O'Brien praised Benvenuto Cellini's class and acknowledged the difficulties faced at Epsom. He indicated future plans for Benvenuto Cellini might include the King George or Irish Champion Stakes, with a potential for the Breeders' Cup Turf in America, considering a preference for faster ground. Christmas Day is expected to target the Leger route.
In a separate race, Purview also delivered an impressive performance, winning the Dubai Duty Free International Stakes. Trainer Dermot Weld expressed delight and highlighted Purview's talent, with potential targets including the Irish Champion Stakes and the Breeders' Cup Turf.
