Latrobe outpaces Saxon Warrior in Dubai Duty Free Derby

Emulating their father's unbelievable exploits, Joseph and Donnacha O'Brien, bagged a first Irish Classic success when Latrobe held off Rostropovich and Saxon Warrior in a rousing finish to the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby.

Joseph had won the Irish Derby as a jockey on Camelot, sire of Latrobe, in 2012, then in Australia in 2014.

Now Joseph is a big-time trainer, because weight did not allow him to pursue a riding career.

Latrobe was in a stalking position throughout the race, only pouncing when pacemaker, Rostropovich, came under pressure two furlongs out.

HALF-A-LENGTH

At 14-1, Latrobe still only hung on by half-a-length. Saxon Warrior an even money apparent banker, was just behind in third place.

Aidan O'Brien, trainer of the second and third, spoke about his sons' performances by saying: "It was incredible. A very special day. What can I say.

It's so tough and competitive, but my two lads (Donnacha and Joseph) really tough it out, daily. They deserve this.'' Of course, they celebrated, but in a muted fashion, as drinking and guzzling, is not hardly allowed. Plus, early mornings are par for the game. Appropriately, Latrobe was also winning in the Lloyd Williams colours that Joseph O'Brien sent out to clap the Melbourne Cup through Rewilding.

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Talking about easy money, Withhold turned the Cesarewitch on its head bouncing 33 rivals last October, had an 8 month rest, then quickly returned for the Stobart Rail and Civils Northumberland

Plate on Saturday. Supposedly one of the toughest event to win, with an extra 6 kgs, a super-charged field, and two strong miles to cover, it posed no problem to Withhold under Robert Winston, who literally just sat there. Prince of Arran was the only other threat, finishing second. A little further and results could have become ignited.