Racing:Ed Dunlop has confirmed that Native Khan will contest the Irish Derby at the Curragh on June 26th. The Craven Stakes winner finished third in the 2000 Guineas and followed that up with a highly creditable run at Epsom when fifth behind Pour Moi.
Johnny Murtagh stepped in to ride at short notice after connections were let down by Kieren Fallon and Murtagh will be on board once more - and for the foreseeable future when he is not required by his employer the Aga Khan.
"Having had discussions with Pinar Araci, whose father Ibrahim owns Native Khan, we have decided to go to Ireland," said Dunlop.
"Epsom showed us that Native Khan stays the mile and a half which opens up so many more doors and, while we did consider the Coral-Eclipse at Sandown, we would be taking on older horses there and it makes sense to stick to your own age group while it is still possible.
"Native Khan came out of Epsom well and with Johnny having been so complimentary about the horse afterwards, I am delighted that he is again available to ride.
"We prefer to have continuity when we can with our jockeys and though Johnny is retained by the Aga Khan, he has agreed to ride Native Khan for us when His Highness does not need him."