Ace books Derby ticket

Mimis Ace, trained by John Kiely for Maura Kiely, Blackrock, earned his ticket to the Boylesports Irish Derby by taking Saturday night’s final of the trial stake at Curraheen Park in great style.

Touched off in the semi-finals, after coming from behind to launch a late challenge, the son of Ace Hi Rumble and Precious Story ensured no repeat as the 5-4 favourite broke better than ever and led clear to the opening turn.

Reserve Ballyhooly Henry went in chase, and looked a threat as he made inroads on the leader approaching the third turn. However, Mimis Ace stayed on strongly to score by two lengths, in 29.60 (550).