O'Brien one two three and on to Irish Derby now for Fernando The Listed Nijinsky Stakes at Leopardstown saw an O’Brien one two three led home by Donnacha’s Fernando Vichi (7/2 out to 5/1) with Gavin Ryan in the plate. Aidan’s favourite The Mediterranean (7/4) was second for Ballydoyle, whilst there was a bronze medal for the other O’Brien trainer, Joseph, through his German-bred Camelot colt Ruling. Fernando Vichi was prominent and led after a furlong. He was ridden clear under two furlongs and he was four lengths up a furlong out. The successful son of Australia had a reduced lead towards the finish but was always doing enough to keep The Mediterranean and Ruling at bay by three parts of a length and the same. Donnacha O'Brien said afterwards: “He had a good run the last day and we always knew he was going to be a mile-and-a-half horse, at least. “Gavin gave him a lovely ride today, he got a nice easy lead but he quickened up well. He put lengths on them and then got a little bit lazy in the last half furlong. I thought it was a good performance. “I think he's earned a shot at the Irish Derby now, that looks like the obvious target. “He's a horse that stays very well and I wouldn't be surprised if we step him up again after that.” When asked if he could be a Leger horse in time he added:- “I think so, there is a lot of stamina in his pedigree and he has a nice lazy relaxed way of going. I see no reason why he shouldn't be. “He quickened up very well today so he deserves a shot at a big one over a mile-and-a-half before we start thinking that way.” (GC & EM)
