Rain sweeps in to aid Derby favourite
A winter of dreams may be realised for the colt’s owners, the 230 members of the Royal Ascot Racing Club, in today’s Vodafone Derby.
But trainer Michael Bell and the club’s racing manager Harry Herbert had been concerned about the ground, which was slightly quicker than expected.
However, heavy showers and slate-grey skies set in just before the last race, prompting Herbert and Bell to abandon their planned inspection.
Herbert said: “I have been phoning, emailing and texting members of the Royal Ascot Racing Club asking them to keep doing the rain dance, and the rain has arrived.
“We think he will love this ground.”
Ballydoyle stable jockey Kieren Fallon opted on Thursday to ride impressive Dee Stakes winner Gypsy King, who has attracted support all week.
Fallon had agonised over his Derby mount with his other possible rides including Irish 2000 Guineas runner-up Oratorio, Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial third Grand Central and Chester Vase second Almighty.
“It wasn’t an easy decision but it wasn’t difficult either,” said Fallon yesterday. “I had a good feeling about Gypsy King before he won at Chester.”
O’Brien added: “They are all in good form but you just hope they stay healthy and well. They have all come forward since their last runs and I hope that they run well.”
