Vase victor Venice Beach solid rather than spectacular

There was a familiar feel about Thursday’s Chester Vase, which like the four previous runnings, was again dominated by Aidan O’Brien.

Saddling four in the race suggested the pecking order at Ballydoyle was unclear and while there was plenty to like about winner Venice Beach and runner-up Wings Of Eagles, it would perhaps be a little disappointing if there were not stronger Derby candidates waiting to be unleashed from within the same stable.

With just three previous runs to his name, Venice Beach no doubt took a huge step forward and is clearly improving quickly. The experience certainly will not have been lost on him and he is entitled to come on again.