Australia Colt Gains Second Stakes Win In Chester Vase

Lambourn (3c Australia – Gossamer Wings, by Scat Daddy) boosted his Epsom Derby claims when making a successful step up in trip in the Group 3 Chester Vase on Wednesday.

Aidan O’Brien’s charge was sent off favourite following stablemate Minnie Hauk’s win in the Listed Cheshire Oaks, but Ryan Moore’s mount had to overcome a wide draw in the mile-and-a-half feature. Pushed along three furlongs out, he was ridden approaching the final furlong and ran on well to lead close home, asserting by a length and a half on the line.

O’Brien later commented: “Lambourn looked a thorough stayer and while he was a little on and off the bridle, once the penny dropped, he came home really strongly. He got the trip really well and he's gone through the line nicely.

On future plans, the trainer added: “We'll just have to see how they all get on in the trials but we were thinking of sending him to Epsom as they learn so much when they go to Chester.”

The performance saw Paddy Power shorten Lambourn to 14/1 for the Epsom Classic, while Betfred went 16/1.

Successful on his first two career starts, including in a Listed race, Lambourne made a promising seasonal return in the Group 3 Ballysax Stakes, finishing second to stablemate Delacroix. The son of Australia was bred by Coolmore out of Queen Mary Stakes second Gossamer Wings (Scat Daddy).