Zone strikes on first run for Lyons

The action on Derby Day at the Curragh started with a thriller in the opening Dubai Duty Free Millennium Millionaire Handicap as Buffer Zone just gained the verdict.

There was plenty of support for the Bated Breath gelding on his first start for Ger Lyons as he was backed from 7/1 in the morning into 4/1 favourite.

Colin Keane produced him to challenge over a furlong from home and he edged ahead inside the final furlong from long-time leader Tide Of Time Twenty Minutes came with a strong surge in the closing stages and they pair flashed past the post together.

After a photo Buffer Zone was confirmed as the winner, with a short-head the verdict.

“My initial reaction was that we got it but then when I looked at it again I thought they had nabbed us,” said Lyons.

“He's been showing plenty and I thought he'd want anywhere from six to seven. I thought that whoever beats him would win today.

“He's only been on the all-weather for us so I didn't know about ground but he's very very straight-forward at home and I thought that this was a good start for his career.

“We'll have to see where we go now and if he progresses. His work at home is very behind the bridle and I thought he ran very keen today — it nearly cost him.

“Credit to Gaelic Bloodstock as they just keep finding these horses. How I don't know but as long as they keep doing it.”

Keane added:- “He was probably doing a bit more than I wanted him to do. He ran a little bit fresh and gassy but he was good and gutsy for me at the line.

“It was getting close at the line and I know the other horse is hardy as I rode him before and he’s very genuine. It was a good battle between them.

“Its genuine good ground, and is like a carpet out there.”

(Additional reporting by Alan Magee)