Testing conditions proved no obstacle for Aidan O'Brien trained Declaration Of War in the Listed Heritage Stakes at Leopardstown today, earning his place in the Group 1 Lockinge Stakes next month.

The son of War Front, under Joseph O'Brien, drifted markedly in the betting (from odds-on out to 6/4) as the ground became gradually worse but he quickened well to lead a furlong out before readily defeating Bold Thady Quill with 5/6 favourite Sweet Lightening well held in fourth.

Afterwards O'Brien stated “we're going to go for the Lockinge at Newbury and that was the plan coming here. He wants fast ground and its a bit surprise that he went on that. He is so strong though - a big powerful horse and I'd imagine he'll come on from that run.”

Quotes from Alan Magee