Insights for The Investec Epsom Derby
What you need to know:
O'Brien revealed that his team is likely to be spearheaded by the unbeaten Sir Dragonet, 7/2 joint-favourite.
Another market leader is Broome (7/2), who has captured a pair of G3 races at Leopardstown this term.
Epsom Downs staged its annual Breakfast With The Stars media event this week, ahead of the Investec Derby Festival beginning Friday, May 31.
Aidan O'Brien and John Gosden, were among a host of participants, sharing their thoughts about three feature G1 races - the Derby, Oaks, and, Coronation Cup. All three contests are part of the British Champions Series.
O'Brien revealed that he could run eight horses in the Classic, seeking a record-equalling seventh success.
A total of 18 colts remain intact, so far. Ireland's 21-time champion Flat trainer has a litany of talent at his disposal for the premier Classic, with a number of his team landing most of the recognised trials.
UNBEATEN
O'Brien revealed that his team is likely to be spearheaded by the unbeaten Sir Dragonet, 7/2 joint-favourite.
The son of Camelot, backed up victory in a Tipperary maiden last month, with an eight-lengths credit over stable companion Norway (33/1), in the G3 Chester Vase.
Presentation of the trophy to the Godolphin team, trainer Charlie Appleby (left) and Jockey William Buick after Masar won the Derby on the second day of the Epsom Derby Festival in Surrey, southern England on June 2, 2018. PHOTO | AFP
Despite talk earlier this week of Sir Dragonet potentially heading for the French Derby at Chantilly, the Coolmore triumvirate of John Magnier, Derrick Smith and Michael Tabor, are now reportedly favoring supplementing their star for the Epsom Downs showpiece, at a cost of £85,000.
Another market leader is Broome (7/2), who has captured a pair of G3 races at Leopardstown this term.
Discussing his Investec Derby team in a phone interview, O'Brien commented: “Sir Dragonet has been going great at home.
SUPPLEMENTARY STAGE
If I had a bet on it, I think the lads are favouring towards running him at Epsom rather than France. We don't have to make our mind up until the supplementary stage.
He was always a very calm horse at home, doing only what was asked. He showed that he quickens nicely over middle distances. John Magnier considers Epsom to be the Holy Grail.
Britain's Queen Elizabeth II and the Queen's racing manager, John Warren attend the second day of the Epsom Derby Festival in Surrey, southern England on June 2, 2017. PHOTO | DANIEL LEAL-OLIVAS | AFP
Broome has had two runs. Ryan Moore and my son, Donnacha, are very happy. Norway ran well at Chester staying the mile-and-a-half, easily.”
O'Brien's other contenders include Anthony Van Dyck (5/1), Circus Maximus (20/1), and, Japan (9/1).
IMPROVE
Maria [Niarchos-Gouazé] and the lads thought about Epsom for Circus Maximus after Chester, from which he will surely improve.
Anthony Van Dyck was always primed for everything, although sprinting is preferred.
Cape Of Good Hope won the Blue Riband Trial at Epsom and has come forward again from that. He is a full-brother to Idaho and Highland Reel.
Norway ran well behind Sir Dragonet at Chester. Japan will improve an awful lot from the Dante. That is enough for now to brace you. Looks like a serious batch of good thoroughbreds come June1.
