O'Brien's Diego Velazquez destroys rivals at Leopardstown

“He had a lovely run in the French Guineas and we stepped him up in trip but discovered in Ascot that he’s not a mile and a half horse."

Diego Velasquez and Ryan Moore win the Meld Stakes (Group 3) at Leopardstown. Picture: Healy Racing Photo.

Dropping in class and trip, the Aidan O’Brien-trained Diego Velazquez pulverised his six rivals in the Group 3 Meld Stakes in Leopardstown.

First leg of a double for O’Brien and Ryan Moore, the 8/11 favourite swung wide off the home turn, soon challenged, was in command before the furlong pole and powered clear to slam chief market rival Tarawa by seven lengths.