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Power is set for a trip to Royal Ascot after bouncing back to form with an impressive victory in the Irish 2000 Guineas at the Curragh.
Photo by Racing and Sports
The Aidan O'Brien-trained colt trailed home 17th of the 18 runners in the English Guineas at Newmarket, beaten some 37 lengths, but was back to his best on firmer ground.
The 5-1 shot looked an unlikely winner even a furlong (200m) out, but a strong ride from Joseph O'Brien helped him gain victory.
Power's stablemates Daddy Long Legs and Wrote set the early pace and the pair built up a healthy advantage over the rest of the field and were still well in control two furlongs out, although the distress signals were out.
With just a furlong left to run, the field still had plenty of ground to make up, but first the Bryan Smart-trained Foxtrot Romeo and then Power emerged to challenge.
Power's change of gear was thoroughly impressive and when O'Brien jnr finally got his head in front, the Oasis Dream colt pulled a length clear in style.
Aidan O'Brien equalled the legendary Vincent O'Brien's record of 27 Irish Classic wins with Power's victory.
"I'm delighted, what can I say. I'm privileged and delighted," O'Brien said.
"He has a lot of class and they can't go too fast in a race for him.
"He's a big, powerful horse, hence his name, and I'd say he'll go for the St James's Palace now."
Richard Hughes may have suffered disappointment as 9-4 favourite Trumpet Major flopped in the Guineas, but Cay Verde provided some consolation as he booked his Royal Ascot ticket.
A three-quarter-length victory over Dylanbaru in the Listed Marble Hill Stakes has trainer Mick Channon eyeing a trip to Berkshire.
"He's been a smashing little horse. He isn't very big but he's got a lot of quality," he said.
"It'll be interesting to see what he does. He'll probably go to the Norfolk Stakes, I wouldn't hesitate now (regarding taking him to Royal Ascot).
"He'll also get an entry in the Windsor Castle as well, they're his choices."
Tiddliwinks followed up his recent Group Two success at York with victory in the Greenlands Stakes while Emulous confirmed her superiority over her rivals in the Group Three Equestrian Stakes.
