Hooray for Henry as O'Brien's colt follows up in Irish Guineas

Barely an inch separated the pair three weeks ago at Newmarket in a finish of huge intensity.
 

Henrythenavigator (right) and Johnny Murtagh draw clear of New Approach and Kevin Manning (left) on their way to landing the Irish 2,000 Guineas

Yesterday, Henrythenavigator put an end to all meaningful debate with a memorable finishing burst that left his rival struggling wearily in his slipstream, with Stubbs Art third once more.

In the run to the line, New Approach was hanging uncomfortably like a boxer who had taken one punch too many and his disappointed trainer, Jim Bolger, had some scathing words about the lightning-fast conditions here.

"I think it is unfair that we didn't have proper Guineas ground," he said. "There was no need to have firm ground and he was leaning left all the way. He will come back here for the Irish Derby if the ground is good."

Bolger had a point, but there can be no doubt Henrythenavigator is the better of the two Classic colts.

Classic double: Johnny Murtagh celebrates after victory with Henrythenavigator

"Our horse was fat at Newmarket and was still carrying condition again today," said winning owner John Magnier. "He's a class act."

Trainer Aidan O'Brien revealed that his jockey, Johnny Murtagh, had been certain of victory all week.

"Johnny had been riding the horse in his work and was convinced he wouldn't come off the bridle here. It was hard to believe that, but he was right."

Murtagh admitted: "I was so sure about the result today that I was getting a bit worked up beforehand. It's very exciting to have the whole year ahead on him."

While the winner's breeding does not scream stamina, O'Brien is clearly tempted to bring him to Epsom for the Derby, for which he is on offer at up to 5-1 - but Ladbrokes, who often seem to have an open line to Ballydoyle, are declining to price him up.

When I pressed O'Brien yesterday, though, he offered his trademark straight-bat reply: "He is a definite possible!"