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We have only witnessed three of this year’s five Irish Classics at the time of writing, with the latest chapters written in folklore for both the Guineas and the Derby. These races have showcased some of the finest equine talent in the sport and as we delve into the victories, it’s clear that the winners have not only left their mark on the track but also stirred significant interest in horse race betting online.
From historic triumphs to dominant performances, these champions have captivated the racing community and punters alike. Join us as we recap the standout winners of the 2024 Irish Classics, celebrating their remarkable achievements and the excitement they bring to the sport.
Rosallion – Irish 2000 Guineas
Richard Hannon must have enjoyed his day at the Curragh on May 25, as the British trainer had the first two over the line in the Irish 2000 Guineas.
Having finished just over a length behind Notable Speech in second in the 2000 Guineas at Newmarket earlier in the month, Rosallion was fancied as the odds-on favourite for the Irish version.
The three-year-old had to work hard though and was nearly pipped to the line by his stablemate Haatem, only passing him in the final strides to win by a head. River Tiber was in third for Aidan O’Brien.
The victory marked the first Irish Classic success for Hannon, and both horses went on to win at Royal Ascot for the Wiltshire-based handler.
Fallen Angel – Irish 1000 Guineas
Just like its British counterpart, the Irish 1000 Guineas takes place on the same weekend as the Irish 2000 Guineas at the Curragh.
Much to the dismay of the Irish, there was another British winner of the Classic, as Fallen Angel justified favouritism for Karl Burke.
The Clipper Logistics-owned horse was eighth in the Newmarket showpiece despite setting off as the market leader earlier in the month.
However, she bounced back emphatically with an almost three-length victory over A Lilac Rolia. O’Brien once again had to settle for third with Opera Singer.
Los Angeles – Irish Derby
It would be a rare feat for O’Brien to go an entire season without winning one of the Curragh Classics, but it looked like he was going to go 0-3 as the bookies had Ambiente Friendly as the favourite to win the Irish Derby.
The James Fanshawe-trained horse finished second to Ballydoyle’s superstar City Of Troy in the Epsom version but was over three lengths clear of his nearest rival Los Angeles in third.
The consensus amongst punters and pundits alike was that O’Brien’s colt would be unable to reverse the form on the Ambiente Friendly in the Irish Derby.
But the British raider could fair no better than third as Los Angeles held off a late surge from Sunway and Oisin Murphy to secure O’Brien his record-extending 16th victory in the race.
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The Irish Oaks is set to take place at the Curragh on July 20, and Epsom scorer Ezeliya is the favourite for Dermot Weld, while the Irish St Leger will take place at the County Kildare course in September.
