Free Eagle who impressed at Leopardstown© Photo Healy Racing
Free Eagle looked top drawer as he made a highly impressive debut in the mile maiden at Leopardstown this evening.
Dermot Weld 's charge had attracted support this morning at 8/1 and the money continued to come on track as he was punted from 7/2 into 11/4 favourite.
Pat Smullen tracked the leaders on the Moyglare Stud-owned son of High Chaparral and he kicked for home with two furlongs to run.
The half-brother to smart filly Sapphire pulled away in great style in the closing stages to post a five-and-a-half length winning margin.
“He did what I expected him to do and he's just a lovely colt. He's impressing us all the time and is a laidback colt” said Weld.
“We'll see how he comes out of it but he's so relaxed I'd expect that he'll come out of it well. He'll have one more run.
“I've no definite plans, maybe the Beresford and he's also in the Racing Post Trophy, we'll see. If the ground is soft in the Beresford then he'll go to the Racing Post Trophy if it is nice ground.
“He's a stayer with speed and is a horse with an awful lot to look forward to next year. He's great looking, quickens in two strides and stays well.
"He has a lovely attitude, temperament and confirmation. Everything a good horse needs. He's going to be a top-class horse.
“He's a beautiful actioned horse. The rain left the ground absolutely perfect.”
Free Eagle was introduced at 16/1 for both the Derby and the 2000 Guineas by bookmaker Stan James.
Paddy Power gave him a first show of 25/1 for the Derby.
Pat Smullen added: "It's a long time since I've been excited by a two-year-old. He does everything right. He's been doing it for the last two and a half months at home and I can't hide my excitement.
"He'll go a mile and a half next year. He's got everything - speed and stamina and great temperament."
Additional reporting by Michael Graham
