Auguste Rodin’s Impressive Performance at the Irish Derby

Auguste Rodin Claims Victory in Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby

Auguste Rodin, ridden by Ryan Moore, secured a landmark win for trainer Aidan O’Brien as he crossed the finish line ahead of stablemate Adelaide River at the Curragh. This victory marked O’Brien’s 100th European Classic win and also served as Moore’s first triumph in the prestigious race.

The Epsom hero demonstrated his prowess once again, finishing a length and a half clear of Adelaide River. Completing a clean sweep for Ballydoyle, Covent Garden claimed third place.

Unfortunately, the race was marred by an injury to San Antonio, another horse trained by O’Brien. Jockey Wayne Lordan suffered a nasty fall when San Antonio broke down on the turn for home.

Throughout the race, Adelaide River set the pace under Seamie Heffernan while Moore opted to take a lead into the straight. Although it appeared that Auguste Rodin would easily secure victory as he loomed upsides two furlongs from home, it wasn’t until the final 100 yards that he ultimately sealed his success.

This triumph makes Auguste Rodin only the second horse since Harzand in 2016 to follow up their Epsom victory with success at the Irish equivalent.

A Unique Challenge: Windy Conditions Affecting Pace

O’Brien commented on how challenging it was to judge pace due to windy conditions: “It was hard to judge with wind and Ryan said it happened too slowly for him. He performs better in faster races.”

The trainer further explained that they aimed for a strong and even pace throughout but felt that Auguste Rodin never fully hit his stride during this particular race: “He never got into third gear at all. When he got to the front, he was all starry-eyed.”

O’Brien acknowledged that Adelaide River handled the course better than Epsom and therefore it was not surprising that this stablemate performed significantly better in this race.

A Classic Blood: Auguste Rodin’s Potential

According to O’Brien, Auguste Rodin possesses classic blood and is capable of covering a mile and a half under strong, fast-paced conditions. The trainer spoke highly of the horse’s ability to move well and consistently make correct decisions on straightforward courses like the Curragh.

Looking towards the future, O’Brien plans to follow his usual approach by waiting approximately seven days before discussing next steps with those involved in Auguste Rodin’s career.

Tributes from Owners and Jockeys

Part-owner Michael Tabor expressed his admiration for Aidan O’Brien and his family following yet another Classic success: “The whole (O’Brien) family and their work ethic is tremendous. It doesn’t happen just by luck… I don’t think you saw the real Auguste Rodin, but it’s always a great thrill to win the Irish Derby.”

Ryan Moore expressed his delight at winning his first Irish Derby while also expressing concern for jockey Wayne Lordan who suffered a fall during the race: “It didn’t suit this horse because it was a messy race… He’s a lovely horse, that’s what it’s about really – it’s about horses.”

Sad Farewell to San Antonio

The unfortunate events included Dee Stakes winner San Antonio sustaining a fatal injury during the race. Aidan O’Brien extended condolences for everyone connected with San Antonio as they mourned this tragic loss:

“It’s terrible for San Antonio… When things go wrong in any sport after going 75% of the way and the pressure is really going on, that’s when devastating stuff can happen and it does happen. Thank god Wayne is OK, but it’s terrible for San Antonio and we’re so sorry for everyone – those who looked after him, rode him, and did everything with him.”

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