Son Of Australia Earns Irish Derby Tilt

Coolmore Stud sires dominated the finish to the Listed Nijinsky Stakes at Leopardstown, where Fernando Vichi (3c Australia - Pernica, by Sir Percy) came out on top by three parts of a length.

Third to Epsom Derby favourite Bolshoi Ballet (Galileo) last time out, the Donnacha O’Brien-trained colt stepped up to a mile and a half for the first time on Friday. Making most of the running under Gavin Ryan, he went clear from two furlongs out and was ridden out as The Mediterranean (Galileo) claimed runners-up honours. Ruling (Camelot) kept on well into third, with Flying Visit (Pride Of Dubai) taking fourth.

Speaking after the race, the winning trainer said, “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.”

Owned by Mrs CC Regalado-Gonzalez, Fernando Vichi continues a successful few days for breeder Epona Bloodstock, following an impressive debut performance by Point Lonsdale (Australia) at the Curragh.