Air Force Blue beats Washington DC (left) and Buratino (right)© Photo Healy Racing
Air Force Blue quickened up impressively to gain revenge on Buratino in the Group 1 Keeneland Phoenix Stakes at the Curragh this afternoon.
The Godolphin runner had beaten his Ballydoyle rival in the Coventry Stakes at Royal Ascot and was a warm order to confirm the form today, backed from 5/2 in the morning and sent off a 11/10 favourite. Sixth Sense cut out the running in the six-furlong contest but gave way two furlongs from home. Rockaway Valley gained a narrow lead but was soon strongly pressed on all sides.
Buratino disputed with Washington DC on the far side, over a furlong out, but the pair were soon trumped by Air Force Blue, who swopped on the near side.
The 9/4 shot powered clear in the closing stages to record a two-length success over stable-mate Washington DC with Buratino half-a-length back in third.
Air Force Blue had been beaten by two-lengths at Ascot on his second outing but turned that form around in no uncertain fashion today.
Aidan O'Brien, who was saddling a double on the card, said afterwards:- "He came forward well from Ascot. He won his maiden here and didn't learn a lot, and was a baby going to Ascot.
"He settled, travelled and quickened up well today, and he was very professional.
"He put it to bed very quick, and he galloped out well. He has a few options now including the Prix Morny.
"It's good to see the form standing up. The second and third were both Ascot winners, and Washington DC has run a good race again. I'm very happy with him."
Paddy Power make the winner their 14/1 favourite for next year's 2,000 Guineas having previously been 16 joint market leader.
Betfair were more impressed and now go 8/1 from 16s for the classic while Boylesports are 10/1 from the same price.
(Quotes from Alan Magee)
