Aidan O’Brien Collects 17th Irish Derby, Lambourn Digs Deeps for Classic Double

[Wandering Eyes]

Aidan O'Brien trainee Lambourn (Australia) was afforded the freedom of Epsom when making all for a wide-margin triumph in the G1 Derby and, prevented from enjoying a moment's relief in Sunday's Irish equivalent at the Curragh, was all heart in becoming the 20th horse to complete the Classic double. He found plenty, and then some, under Ryan Moore's forceful urgings inside final half-mile to provide the Ballydoyle maestro with a record-extending 17th success in the race.

The 8-13 favourite was unable to dominate as he had in the Blue Riband and was harrassed throughout by Listed Cocked Hat Stakes runner-up Sir Dinadan (Camelot). Under the pump before straightening for home, Lambourn inched ahead as stablemate Serious Contender (Wootton Bassett) posed an ominous threat soon after passing the quarter-mile marker and called upon deep reserves in the closing stages to eke out a game 3/4-of-a-length victory.

None of the remaining septet was able to mount a challenge as Lazy Griff (Protectionist) powered home far too late to snag third, 2 1/4 lengths adrift, in a bunch finish for the final podium spot with the game Sir Dinadan running out of gas nearing the line. The winner emulates his sire in completing the Epsom-Curragh double.

 

LAMBOURN, a dual Derby winner pic.twitter.com/WMHW2rRAwg

— TDN (@theTDN) June 29, 2025

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