Hans Andersen impresses in informative Curragh maiden

Hans Andersen has a tough act to follow in order to replicate the future exploits of former winners of the Juddmonte Farms Expert Eye Irish EBF(C&G) Maiden at the Curragh.

Under various different sponsorships over the years, renewals were won by future stars such as Australia, Mac Swiney, Teofilio and New Approach.

Although the 2022 winner has some way to go before reaching their level, the Aidan O'Brien trained colt put up a thoroughly professional performance in the hands of Ryan Moore.

Second on his racecourse debut at Tipperary last month, the son of Frankel knew his job here, jumping smartly to lead from the outset. Once Moore began to wind it up from the front over a furlong out, the colt lengthened impressively to win easily.

Debutant Al Riffa stayed on strongly from the rear to make a really promising start to his career in second, while Young Ireland stayed on for third.

“We're delighted with him, he had a lovely run the first day and he learned plenty,” said O'Brien.

“He won well. He was a little bit green turning in in Tipperary and came forward lovely.

“He should have no problem stepping into stakes company now. He should have no problem going further but there is no rush to step him up.

“He could come back here for the Futurity or something like that.”

Additional reporting by Gary Carson