Joseph O’Brien achieved a landmark first Classic success just two days before his 18th birthday on Roderic O’Connor trained by his father Aidan in the Irish 2000 Guineas at the Curragh.
Last season’s joint-champion Irish apprentice made virtually every yard of the running on the Galileo colt to give the Ballydoyle maestro a seventh win the race.
A big disappointment in the English 2000 Guineas, Roderic O’Connor (7-2) bounced back to the top form he showed as a two-year-old.
He shrugged off several challengers and had enough left in the tank to Dubawi Gold by three-quarters of a length.
“I owe the owners a big thanks for giving me this opportunity,” O’Brien jnr said.
“Dad had him ready for today and he picked up from the three pole (600m). He stays very well and he is very genuine.
“That’s about my 60th winner now and this is what you dream of.”
The winning trainer and proud father savoured the moment.
“This is one of those days that you couldn’t dream about happening,” he said.
“I can’t explain just how delighted we are. Joseph works very hard and he knows this horse well.
“All credit must go to the owners for giving him the chance.
“The horse is very brave and stays very well.
“He could go for the French or Epsom Derby now.”
PA AAP TURF
