KEENELAND PHOENIX STAKES (Group 1)

AIDAN O’Brien continued his dominance of the Keeneland Phoenix Stakes as Air Force Blue made it 14 wins in the space of 17 years for the Ballydoyle maestro with a commanding performance that saw the War Front colt promoted to clear favourite at around 10/1 for next year’s Qipco 2000 Guineas.

Air Force Blue was renewing rivalry with his Coventry Stakes conqueror Buratino, who was sent off the well-backed 11/10 favourite, but the placings were reversed in no uncertain manner in this six-furlong Group 1 as Joseph O’Brien confidently produced his mount to challenge over a furlong out.

The 9/4 second favourite responded well when asked for his effort, and really asserted in the final 100 yards to score by two lengths.

Windsor Castle Stakes winner Washington DC completed a 1-2 for the yard, with the favourite another half-length back in third. “He won his maiden here but didn’t learn a lot, and was a baby going to Ascot. He came forward well from Ascot, and he settled, travelled and quickened up well today. He was very professional,” said the winning trainer.

“He put it to bed very quick, and galloped out well. He has a few options now including the Prix Morny, and it’s good to see the Ascot form standing up.”