Oxx reaches for the stars

Sea The Stars, a half-brother to 2001 Derby hero Galileo, staked an early claim for Epsom honours with victory in the Korean Racing Authority EBF (C&G) Maiden at Leopardstown.

John Oxx’s youngster is 33-1 from 50-1 for next year’s Epsom Classic with VC Bet and 25-1 with Paddy Power after showing the benefit of a promising first run at the Curragh a month ago.

Alyazwa set the pace but he was overhauled over a furlong out by Sea The Stars and the 2-1 favourite powered away to win by two and a half lengths from Dark Humour, with The Bull Hayes staying on well for third a similar distance away.

Aidan O’Brien’s newcomer Sirgarfieldsobers, a brother to 2007 Derby victor Authorized, finished towards the rear after being slowly away.