Blue Moon is rising at Naas

True Blue Moon booked his ticket for Royal Ascot when landing the Coolmore War Command Rochestown Stakes for brothers Donnacha and Joseph O’Brien at Naas.

The son of Holy Roman Emperor finished strongly under Donnacha O’Brien to score by half a length from Verhoyen with Simmy’s Copshop three quarters of a length further back in third.

Joseph O’Brien said, “He won nicely in Dundalk but he had a little setback after that and we were a bit worried coming here. He’s quick and tries hard, and Donnacha gave him a great ride. He should improve from that as he missed a week.

“He’d have to go to Ascot after that but which race I’m not sure. I’d be inclined to stay to five (furlongs) as he’s quick and travels well.

“It’s the only horse that Brian (Nolan, from Maynooth) has with me. He bred him and has been lucky.”