PRINCE RULES IN NEWBRIDGE DERBY

Ian Fortune

Maireads Prince will enter his fifth year as the Friends of Newbridge Derby champion after a dominant display in Friday’s €3,500 decider at the Kildare venue.

The talented son of Droopys Sydney and Clona Skye will turn four next month but he retains all his enthusiasm and plenty of ability if this latest superb performance is to be taken at face value.

The 2-1 second choice in the market, he quickly put himself in pole position, making a fast start from six to dictate from the outset. Breffni Paddy went up in second with the favourite Clonfert Teddy on the inside in third.

Maireads Prince drove the turn, however, and increased his advantage. He also ran an exceptional second bend and seemed to be taking ground off his rivals with each stride. Indeed, by halfway, Barry Clancy’s star was five lengths to the good and showing no sign of relenting.

Maireads Prince, who was once an Easter Cup finalist, ran right out to the line to emerge a comfortable three length winner over Breffni Paddy in 30.11 with Clonfert Teddy another four lengths away in third.