IRISH 2YO TOYS WITH AUSSIE 3YOS ON DEBUT

Danny O'Brien's Tattersall's Sale experiment remains in its infancy, but it would be a surprise if he doesn't persist with it following Russian Camelot's performance at Ballarat on Friday.

The Irish-bred colt won the 1400-metre Suez 3YO Maiden Plate despite spotting each of his rivals around six months in age.

It was a satisfying start to the project and one O'Brien's Ballarat representative Ben Gleeson hopes is the start of bigger things to come.

"We thought we'd just get him in the system early, let him settle in, because if you can get these horses early (and) train them the way you want you get to learn the horse from day dot," Gleeson said.

"He's six months behind these horses as a three-year-old. He's a horse we'll give time. If he was in England he'd be targeting an Epsom Derby, so Dan's sort of seeing it that way. We'll see how he is in the autumn next year."

Russian Camelot, who does not turn three until March 29 next year, swept home from the rear of the field to score a decisive 1.75-length win at $4.60.

It was Damien Oliver's only ride at the Ballarat meeting and the Hall of Fame hoop was impressed with what he felt.

"Good horse," was his brief summary when asked what thought of the performance.

"I've trialled him and he's trialled like a nice horse, but because he's six months behind, being a European two-year-old, we haven't really tried him hard as such.

"He's a great looking horse and he's always given you the feel of a nice horse, but it's always nice to see it there when you ask them for the effort and they do respond."

O'Brien has pledged his commitment to the Tattersalls Sale and this week was back in action, purchasing a colt by Sea The Stars.

Story by Brad Bishop for Racing.com

Pic by Racing Photos