Joseph O'Brien's Ruling proved to be different class to his opposition in the 10-furlong maiden at the Curragh.

He went off the even-money favourite on the back of a rating of 101.

He stalked Kilmallock Lady into the straight and eased past her on the bridle approaching the final quarter of a mile.

The race was over once Shane Crosse exerted his arms as his mount readily shot clear.

He ran on for an easy success by nine lengths from 250/1 outsider Coolnaugh Haze Rick Dalton completed the placings in third at 5/1.

Assistant trainer Brendan Powell said: “His run against Fernando Vichi and The Mediterranean when he was third (at Leopardstown) was a good run. He’s done it well and it’s nice to get his head in front.

“Next year I think he’ll improve and he’ll improve going further. He’s not short of speed but I think he’ll stay well.

“He’s a real big horse and a horse with a future.”

Additional reporting by Alan Magee