Horse Racing: Heights' Derby odds slashed

Asian Heights was backed into as low as 8-1 for next month's Derby after an impressive victory at Goodwood today.

The Geoff Wragg-trained colt comfortably beat Wareed by a length and three quarters in the 11furlong Listed Predominate Stakes.

And the colt's handler is keen for the horse to take his chance at Epsom.

It marked Wragg's third victory in the race following the successes of Jeune in 1992 and Pentire in 1995.

"He's really a nice horse," said Wragg. "We had a little problem with a joint, which he incurred after he ran at Sandown (last month), which stopped us from running him at Newmarket or Chester.

"After the run at Sandown we had hoped to run him at York but that didn't happen so this was our last chance."

After confirming the Asian Heights would be Epsom bound - "I wouldn't think the owner would stop me from running him there" - Wragg explained the colt's quick stop at the end of the race.

"He spooked. He's a bit nervous which is why he missed the break. He was sitting back as the gates opened. It is something I will sort out before Epsom."