Swallow swoops for Derby glory

Grey Swallow outpointed Vodafone Derby hero North Light to claim the Budweiser Irish Derby in a thrilling finish at the Curragh today.

The Dermot Weld-trained colt, ridden by Pat Smullen, challenged North Light in the final furlong and just got the better of their duel to win by half a length.

Tycoon, one of five Aidan O’Brien-trained runners in the field, delivered a late challenge to finish third.

Grey Swallow (10-1) was settled in the pack by Smullen as Moscow Ballet set the pace, with the Epsom second Rule Of Law sitting on his heels.

Kieren Fallon kept 8-11 favourite North Light handy in about fourth place throughout, but he looked unhappy with the easy pace and started to make a move on the outside six furlongs out.

As the leading duo began to fade, North Light was in front three furlongs out, but Smullen was biding his time and struck with a furlong to go.

North Light stayed on bravely, but Grey Swallow just had too much toe and he went past to land a great victory for the home side.

The 150-1 outsider Tycoon snatched third from Rule Of Law, who beat the Epsom third Let The Lion Roar home once again.

John Gosden pulled out Day Flight because of the quick ground, and his other runner Percussionist was always struggling before dropping right out turning for home to finish last.

Grey Swallow had been beaten in two Classics earlier this season, finishing fourth in the English 2000 Guineas and third in the Irish equivalent, and this was his first attempt at further than a mile.

Weld said: “I’ve always believed in this horse. There were doubts about him staying a mile and a half, but he worked superbly the other day and I knew I had him in good form.

“This was a very good Derby and an extra special win as he was bred by my mother, who also owns part of him.”

Smullen told BBC Sport: “I can’t believe it. We had so much faith in this horse in the English and Irish Guineas, but obviously all he wanted was a little bit further. He’s a champion.

“Words can’t describe this. I’ve had an up and down year so far, but winning races like this is what it’s all about. For the boss as well, and all the boys at home. It’s unbelievable.”