Aztec leads the Parade in Tetrarch for Murtagh and Keane

The Irish Stallion Farms EBF Tetrarch Stakes (Listed) went to Aztec Parade (18/5) for Johnny Murtagh and Colin Keane.

The powerfully-built Anjaal colt was in the front rank throughout and stretched out well on the fast ground to win by a length and a quarter and a nose from Free Solo (22/1) and Agitare (4/1).

The 2/1 favourite Fame And Acclaim seeking a four-timer, didn’t pick up on this occasion and finished sixth. The winner, well bought at E10,000 as a yearling at Tattersalls Ireland by Eddie Linehan Bloodstock, was unraced at two and won a maiden at Leopardstown on his third start in July.

He was runner-up to Real Force (a non-runner due to ground here) on softer ground at Tipperary on his previous start.

Winning rider Colin Keane said: "I was talking to Johnny (Murtagh) beforehand and he said to keep it very straightforward and he is a massive striding horse and keeps galloping and galloping.

"He jumped well and I had my hands down on the wither and he picked up every furlong for me and galloped the whole way to the line.

"He seems to be very versatile, handles slow ground and hopped off that quick surface today. You'd image with the size of him, he'd only be better towards the back end of this year or next year.

"I didn't ride much for Johnny this year but the lads are doing a great job for him and he has a great team; that's my first winner for him this year."

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes