Septimus strengthens O’Brien’s Derby hand

AIDAN O’BRIEN’S chances of winning a third Vodafone Derby received another boost at York yesterday when Septimus threw his hat into Epsom ring with victory in the totesport Dante Stakes.

In a race that looks increasingly short on potential stars beyond French favourite Visindar, O’Brien now has command of the ante-post market for the Derby beyond the market leader with Septimus, Horatio Nelson and Dylan Thomas clustered next in the betting.

Septimus, sent off the 13-8 favourite for this Group Two contest, staked his claim for Epsom by drawing eight-lengths clear of Best Alibi with Snoqualmie Boy 11 lengths further back in third.