New Approach in Epsom Derby triumph

London: New Approach, trained in Ireland by Jim Bolger and ridden by Kevin Manning, galloped to an exciting triumph in the Epsom Derby on Saturday at odds of 5-1.

The winner is owned by Princess Haya Bint Al Hussain, wife of His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

Princess Haya was given the horse as a present from Shaikh Mohammad.

"Today he showed brilliance that we have never seen from him before. I can't believe it," Princess Haya said on television.

"It's his [Shaikh Mohammad] horse, its really wonderful. It is such an amazing feeling and I can't believe it, to share this dream with Shaikh Mohammad.

The colt switched to the inside in the last 200 metres and then held off the brave challenge of Tartan Bearer (6-1), the mount of Ryan Moore, by half a length.

Third place in the 16-strong field, four and a half lengths further away, went to 7-2 favourite Casual Conquest, partnered by Pat Smullen.

It was a first victory in the premier classic race for both Bolger and Manning who had had to settle for second place with New Approach in the English and Irish 2,000 Guineas earlier this season.

But racing over a mile and half instead of a mile, New Approach returned to the kind of form that marked him as last year's leading juvenile.

Winning jockey Manning, 41, told BBC TV: "He's been crying out for the extra distance."

Bolger, who had watched Manning work his way to the inside at a critical stage before delivering his winning challenge, said: "Kevin starred. He kept his calm. He didn't panic."

Bolger only decided a week ago, soon after defeat in the Irish 2,000 Guineas, to route the colt to Epsom after various uncertain indications during the season about plans for the colt.

But the prospect of an easier surface and the horse's breeding helped sway the decision which ended in victory on Saturday.

The situation had also been complicated by New Approach's temperament and concerns he might not cope with the huge crowds and the Derby Day atmosphere.

Bolger was granted special permission for his horse to be accompanied down to the start by a stable pony and although they arrived a little late at the start the race went off as normal.