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Curragh influence on the wane as training talent is spread more widely
Most neutral observers of Irish racing will be cheering for Madhmoon in Saturday's Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby.
There is no case of ill will to Aidan O'Brien, but it is just no contest in terms of emotional resonance between a trainer seeking his 13th win in the Classic since 1997, and evergreen Kevin Prendergast, 86, looking for his first. Prendergast was already training in his own right when his legendary father 'Darkie' won the race for the fourth and final time with Meadow Court in 1965.
No-one who appreciates Flat racing's tradition should really want to see a Derby winner defeated. This time many will make exception to entertain the romantic attraction of a Prendergast triumph over a more routine Ballydoyle success.
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