Cougar claims finale on Derby weekend

Ryan Moore and Aidan O'Brien combined to win the final race on Derby weekend, as Cougar made all the running to land the ARIONEO Irish EBF Maiden at the Curragh.

Runner up in the Ulster Derby last time, the Deep Impact colt was reverting to maiden company here and Moore set out his stall early in the race.

Mindful of his previous experience and staying ability, Moore had Cougar in front from the start and kicked clear early in the straight.

Stable representative Chris Armstrong said:- “Aidan is delighted with him. He's had a few good runs this year and ran a lovely race last week at Down Royal in the premier handicap.

“He probably ran to his mark there and Ryan gave him a lovely ride from the front.

“He'll appreciate a step up in trip and they'll probably keep him for a handicap somewhere.” Additional reporting by Gary Carson