Ruler rewards his backers

High Ruler was backed as if defeat were out of the question for the opening Irish Stallion Farms European Breeders Fund Maiden at Roscommon and he didn't disappoint under Seamie Heffernan, showing admirable battling qualities to dispose of Jolie Jioconde by three parts of a length.

Having his second start 43 days after his debut, the victorious son of Mr Greeley and Oaks winner, Lady Carla was always on the pace and he fought off the wandering runner-up inside the final furlong to prevail.

One of three Ballydoyle runners on the night (the other two being Grand Admiral and Dance On By in the Listed race), Heffernan commented on High Ruler: "He is still very green but he has the makings of a nice horse."