Graduate on course for Irish Derby

THE formidable partnership of Dermot Weld and Pat Smullen dominated the early exchanges at Gowran Park last evening, completing a superb treble with Notable Gaduate, Blue White Fire and Cannon Hill.

A half-brother to English 2,000 Guineas winner Refuse To Bend and Melbourne Cup victor Media Puzzle, Notable Graduate set the ball rolling when making all to justify 2/11 favouritism in the opening Rooftop restaurant At Gowran Park Race.

Following-up his maiden win at Tipperary, the Galileo colt dictated the pace and, in the closing stages, was always holding Last Crusade, which he beat by three lengths.