Belmont Derby Invitational S.

Deauville gained his first victory since last July 23 for trainer Aidan O’Brien — and he made it a big one. Jockey Jamie Spencer, starting farthest outside in post 13, hustled Deauville into second position early behind front-running Toughest ’Ombre. He assumed the lead when Toughest ‘Ombre folded and held off Highland Sky’s furious late charge by a neck. Beach Patrol and Camelot Kitten, both conditioned by Chad Brown, ran third and fourth, respectively.

“He was full of energy and had plenty left in reserve for the stretch,” said Spencer. “He’s a hard-trained horse who was ready for the day.” Deauville completed the 1 ¼-mile distance in 2:00.51 on a firm turf course.

Trainer Barclay Tagg thought runner-up Highland Sky fell victim to his running style, which is to come from far back. “He loses a lot of ground every time,” Tagg said. “It’s nobody’s fault. It’s just the way he’s made and the way it works.”