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Pat Smullen claimed victory in front of an estimated 100,000 people at Epsom. PA Wire/Press Association Images

Irish trainer Weld wins first Epsom Derby as Harzand holds off late challenge

The Epsom Derby is British racing’s most lucrative race with the winning owner earning over £1.3 million.

IRISH TRAINER DERMOT Weld can finally add the Derby to his catalogue of major wins after his horse Harzand held on to beat the favourite US Army Ranger by a length and a half at Epsom.

Harzand, who claimed the Ballysax Stakes at Leopardstown back in April, was a doubtful runner at the start of the day but finished strongly in the world’s most famous flat race. Idaho came in third to make it an all-Irish first three.

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“He dug in. I could sense Ryan coming, and I saw US Army Ranger’s white face, but this horse responded,” said jockey Pat Smullen after the race.

Weld too was overjoyed with the victory, “It’s wonderful. We had a huge worry this morning because he spread a plate travelling over and he was a very doubtful runner right up to an hour ago, but with the tremendous help of all my colleagues and my team we made it.”

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