London – Ballydoyle maestro Aidan O’Brien celebrated a terrific tenth victory in the Qipco 2000 Guineas after Magna Grecia scored under the trainer’s son Donnacha O’Brien at odds of 11-2.
The colt, owned by Derrick Smith, John Magnier, Michael Tabor and Flaxman Stables, stayed on strongly on Newmarket’s stands’ side to beat 66-1 outsider King Of Change by 2.50 lengths.
Stablemate and favourite Ten Sovereigns travelled well on his first start over 1600m, but the stands’ side runners – including two of the first three – were clear.
The winning trainer said: “I’m delighted with Magna Grecia – he’s a lovely horse, developed well over the winter and matured great. He’s very exciting and we thought he’d get a mile well even though he had plenty of pace last year.
“Donnacha was always in a fantastic position on him and it’s a massive team effort. John [Magnier, part-owner] always thought he was a miler and we think that will be the route we’ll be going with the Irish Guineas and then Ascot.”
O’Brien’s remarks suggest Epsom is unlikely to be on the agenda for the winner, who is not entered in the Investec Derby, and Betfair shortened Magna Grecia to evens (from 3-1) for the Tattersalls Irish 2000 Guineas at the Curragh on 25 May.
Donnacha O’Brien, successful in the race aboard Saxon Warrior last year, said: “It’s an unbelievable achievement for Dad. The horses were in great condition coming here and he’s a genius. I just need to learn as much from him as I can.
“Magna Grecia is uncomplicated so I kept it simple, followed the pace and it worked out well. He’s seen it out well.”
Craven Stakes winner Skardu kept on best of the rest to finish third, with Madhmoon and Ten Sovereigns close behind. – www.racingpost.com