The Derby is here. The mile and a half test for equine perfection. The winner must have the exact balance between stamina, to withstand the energy sapping undulations of the Epsom Downs track, and speed to accelerate out of Tattenham corner and turn on the afterburners in the straight to shake off the pretenders.
This is considered the most prestigious race in the flat calendar, the pièce de résistance, the classic of classics. The 12 furlong challenge is steeped in history and is a very special occasion. It could be made even more special if you can find the winner!
I would love to go through the whole field, but unfortunately I am a bit pressed for time, and also severely hungover (I got the results of my degree yesterday). So please excuse me if I overlook something, I’m keeping it brief!
There is no better place to start a look at the 233rd renewal of the Epsom Derby, than with the market leader Dawn Approach. A very impressive Guineas winner, the Bolger team are strong on this fella. The question is will he stay the extra four furlongs. The experts reckon he’ll get a mile and a quarter no bother but the fact that his dam side pedigree shows a little more speed than stamina suggests that he wont stay, however there is stamina with the grandam, as Brian Gleeson just pointed out on the morning line, being by Pleasant Colony. Look, I could spoof on forever about whether or not he gets the trip. The layers have gone 7/4 about him, which in my eyes is disrespectful, however I wouldn’t regard DA as a solid betting prospect for me. I can’t get stuck into him, but I do hope he wins.
The French horse Ocovango is unbeaten for his three starts and won a decent Greffuhle (Gr. 2) at Saint Cloud the last day. Incase you didn’t know already, Fabre happens to be a genius and is not making the trip for the craic. I’d rate this horse and is reasonable at 15/2 or so.
Ballysax and Derrinstown victor Battle of Marengo is also worth a mention as a proven “trip-getter” for want of a better phrase (the hangover is intensifying). Both those races were middling renewals but he deserves respect nonetheless.
I do realise I’ve just named three of the four market leaders and how incredibly boring thats is. However, I do think that these 3 should be in the mix coming to the post.
I’ve put my beret on and gone with Ocovango e/w.
Best of luck with your selections. A cracking day of racing awaits! (And the Lions)
Slán Tamaillín,
A very hungover T
Turf Talk 