First run in 1780, the Derby is one of the world’s most prestigious races and remains Britain’s premier Classic. Run over a mile and a half at Epsom, the Group 1 contest provides a unique test of speed, stamina and balance. This year’s field features 14 hopefuls, and here is a short assessment of each runner.
Action
A consistent performer who arrives after a solid second in the Dante Stakes. Closely related to last year’s Derby hero Lambourn and shapes as though the step up to a mile and a half will suit. Likely to be competitive, although others may possess a touch more class.
Alderman
An improving colt who has progressed with every start and stayed on well when runner-up at Newbury. Stamina looks a major asset, but he remains a maiden and faces a huge jump in class. Tough to see him troubling the principals.
Ancient Egypt
A classy son of Frankel who returned to winning ways with a convincing Listed success at Newmarket. His pedigree suggests there is more to come over this longer distance and he is drawn favourably. An interesting each-way contender but would prefer quicker ground.
A Taste Of Glory
Has shown ability in lesser company but struggled whenever tackling stronger opposition. His recent Derby Trial effort leaves him with plenty to find and he looks up against it in this company.
Balzac
A previous winner who has gained valuable experience around Epsom and ran respectably in both the Blue Riband Trial and Lingfield Derby Trial. However, he was comfortably held by several rivals reopposing here and needs significant improvement.
Bay Of Brilliance
Progressive and lightly raced, he pushed Maltese Cross all the way in the Lingfield Derby Trial on his seasonal debut. Softer ground should suit and he remains open to improvement. One of the more appealing outsiders.
Benvenuto Cellini
The likely favourite after an impressive Chester Vase victory. Aidan O’Brien’s colt combines strong form, stamina and an impressive pedigree. Soft ground would be a concern if the forecast rain arrives, but otherwise he has plenty in his favour and looks set to play a leading role for connections with an exceptional Derby record.
Christmas Day
Winner of the Ballysax before finishing third in the Dante. Bred to thrive over this trip and any ease underfoot should be in his favour. Solid rather than spectacular, but capable of outrunning his odds.
Item
The only unbeaten horse in the field and a highly impressive Dante winner. He travelled strongly and finished his race well at York, suggesting this extra distance should suit. A leading contender if he continues his upward progression.
James J Braddock
A tough and progressive colt who edged out Pierre Bonnard in the Leopardstown Derby Trial. Proven on soft ground and shapes as though a mile and a half will bring out further improvement. Commands plenty of respect.
Maltese Cross
A determined winner of three of his four starts, including the Lingfield Derby Trial. His pedigree screams stamina and he continues to find extra when challenged. Not flashy, but possesses the attitude of a genuine contender. While four Derby winners have emerged from the inside berth, he may still need some luck in running.
Pierre Bonnard
A Group 1 winner at two who was considered a major Derby prospect throughout the winter. His three-year-old campaign has been less convincing, although he showed more promise last time. The step up in trip looks a plus but he needs to improve.
Poker
The most expensive yearling in the field but has yet to justify that reputation on the track. Still a maiden and needs dramatic improvement. I could think of better ways to have spent £4.5 million.
Rebel Rocker
Runner-up in the Blue Riband Trial and already has experience of Epsom’s unique test. Likeable and progressive, but this is a much deeper race and he appears to have plenty to find on the ratings.
VERDICT
The master of Ballydoyle, Aidan O’Brien, boasts a remarkable record in the Derby and appears to hold another strong hand this year. Stable jockey Ryan Moore has opted for Chester Vase winner Benvenuto Cellini, a colt who stayed on powerfully to score by four and a half lengths and already has a Group 2 success at Leopardstown on his record. With stamina assured and a decent draw, he could be tough to beat, although softer ground would be a concern. Maltese Cross is a strong stayer with a good attitude who could feature if able to negotiate a good position from stall one. Bay Of Brilliance ties in closely on Lingfield form and, with a more favourable draw, also looks capable of making his presence felt.
