Masterofthehorse becomes the latest Derby gamble
The Ballydoyle maestro is responsible for seven of the first 11 in the betting for the Epsom Classic, with impressive Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial winner Fame And Glory the clear market-leader with most firms.
Last week the money suggested 2000 Guineas fifth Rip Van Winkle could be the choice of stable jockey Johnny Murtagh, but this latest betting move offers another dilemma for punters.
Masterofthehorse, a full-brother to Oaks winner Alexandrova, was beaten into second by stablemate Golden Sword in the Chester Vase last time, but that has not stopped Paddy Power slashing him to 12-1 from 20-1.
Sky Bet show at 11-1 from the same price while Coral are still as big as 14s.
Coral spokesman David Stevens said: “In recent days we’ve seen significant market support for Rip Van Winkle, Fame And Glory and now Masterofthehorse.
“This suggests that the first time we’ll find out for certain which of the Ballydoyle colts is at the head of the pecking order is when they past the finishing post next Saturday!”
Kite Wood, one of the few remaining British-trained Derby contenders, came through his latest workout in fine form as his date with destiny at Epsom looms large.
The son of Galileo was not disgraced when finishing fifth of the 10 runners in the Dante Stakes on his first outing of the campaign and Godolphin racing manager Simon Crisford believes that run has brought him on.
“It was just routine stuff and quite straightforward. Just good pre-Derby conditioning. Everything went well but there were no fireworks,” said Crisford.
“He looks like he might have improved since York and one would expect him to have improved because he was slightly under-cooked that day.
“He needs to make significant improvement to be a live Derby contender but he seems in good shape and is all set to take his chance.”
However, a decision has still to be made regarding Brian Meehan’s Group One winner Crowded House.
The chestnut was sent off favourite for the Dante but disappointed and was reported to have returned a dirty scope after the race.
“Crowded House worked well yesterday and we are pleased with him. He had a good blow and will work again on Monday when a decision will be made as to whether we run in the Derby,” said Meehan.
“The reason for this delayed decision is because he missed some work after the Dante and may be a little short, but we will know on Monday for sure,” he told his website, www.brianmeehanatmanton.com.
Epsom Derby: Cashmans bet - 2 Fame And Glory, 7/2 Sea The Stars, 6 Rip Van Winkle, 7 Black Bear Island, 8 Gan Amhras, 10 Masterof'horse, 14 Fremantle, 25 Bar.
