AUSSIE RULES
O’Briens bag Derby
AIDAN O’BRIEN became the first trainer in history to win three Derbies in a row with AUSTRALIA, ridden by son Joseph.
The Irish maestro declared before the race that this was the best horse he’d ever trained — a massive statement from a man who’s had some of the equine greats in his yard.
But 11/ 8 favourite Australia more than lived up to the hype, travelling smoothly and coming away to win with a bit left the in the tank.
Gutsy Kingston Hill was second, just over a length away, but he never looked like getting the better of the winner.
John Gosden’s Romsdal outran his 20- 1 price to finish third, another three and a quarter lengths away.
Winning rider O’Brien said: “I had a grand position and was going very easily coming down hill, nearly too easy.
“I got there a bit too soon, I was cantering all the way — I got there too soon but I had to stay going when I did.
“Horses don’t come easier to ride than this fellow — he’s the best I’ve ridden.”
Aidan O’Brien said: “We’re in a very privileged position to have the horses we have, so it’s thanks to everybody. There are so many people involved just to get him to this position.
“Joseph had it in his mind where he wanted to be all the time, to keep it uncomplicated and safe and that is what he did — he gave him a beautiful ride.
“We’ve always thought he was very special. The way he travelled through the race he must be very special.”
Varian said of Kingston Hill: “I’m really pleased. Andrea gave him a great ride and had him in a good position.
“He had every chance to win and we really served it up to him. He has run a great race without winning.
“We’ll just have to see if we take him on again, Aidan may drop him back to 10 furlongs but I think the Irish Derby would suit our horse.
“I’m sure they’ll meet again at some stage.”
John Gosden saddled two, with Romsdal’s third bettering that of much- fancied stablemate Western Hymn in sixth.
“Romsdal ran a great race, he looks like a St Leger type to me,” said Gosden.
“Western Hymn met a bit of trouble. I think a more conventional track will suit him better.”