With the defection of both Qatar's Pearl and Strait Of Zanzibar, just five went to post for the opening race on Oaks day at the Curragh, the Darley EBF Maiden.

Punters found it difficult to separate the top two in the market with Newbury Hall and newcomer Apollo battling out favouritism.

The latter going off the 11/10 favourite, having being backed from 7/4, with the form at 6/4 having drifted from 4/5 on track.

The two dominated the race as well, with Apollo for Aidan O'Brien and Ryan Moore coming out on top.

Newbury Hall for Jessica Harrington & Fran Berry made the early running but two furlongs out the favourite drew alongside. He then edged in front a furlong and a half out, as the runner-up swished his tail. Apollo then kept on well to score by three lengths.

Winning trainer Aidan O'Brien said afterwards: "He did it nicely. I was a bit worried about the ground today, but we just wanted to get him started.

"He is a beautiful moving horse.

"We will wait and see what to do with him now but he could go for any of the big 2yo Stakes races as he is entered in them all."

Both Paddy Powers and Boylesports have given the son of Galileo a 33/1 quote for next years English 2,000 Guineas

Donal Murphy