The Derby is the biggest Flat race in the UK and while other equine competitions around the globe can claim to be the best race in the world, this unique test around the sloping cambers of Epsom is the toughest race restricted to three year olds on the planet.

1. Dee Ex Bee – This trip could stretch his stamina given his sire was best over either eight or ten furlongs. He was behind Young Rascal in the Chester Vase. Positive is the ground which is in his favour but he’s unlikely to be good enough.
2. Delano Roosevelt – Beautifully bred by Galileo out of an Irish 1,000 Guineas winner, he ran on very strongly at Leopardstown behind Hazapour and the increase in distance looks bound to suit him. It would be no surprise to see him in the frame or with some luck even better.
3. Hazapour – There are plenty who reckon he will get the trip but I think it’s a bit of a question mark. Dettori is a brilliant tactical rider and if he grabs a good position from the gate then he’s not without a chance.
4. Kew Gardens – He’s failed in Listed races the last two starts and he would need to demonstrate a big jump in ability
5. Knight To Behold – Sired by the fabulous Sea The Stars, Harry Dunlop’s charge landed the Lingfield Derby Trial, despite showing a few quirks. He will stay the trip but does need to be a bit calmer than at Lingfield. He has claims on both pedigree and on what he has shown so far and is one of the more likely winners.
6. Masar – Third in the 2,000 Guineas and there is stamina in the pedigree. He hasn’t shown enough ability to date to win this so you’d have to have seen something in his recent work at home to back him.
7. Roaring Lion – John Gosden’s US-bred Dante Stakes winner, he was fifth in the 2,000 Guineas but appeared to relish the extra furlongs at York. Not entirely certain to enjoy the softer ground conditions though.
8. Saxon Warrior – Winner of the 2,000 Guineas and has an excellent attitude. He appears to find more when he needs it and as he is by super Japanese star Deep Impact, he could shake up the breeding scene if he were to land this prestigious race. He is the form pick without a doubt and the ground is no issue. The one to beat.
9. Sevenna Star – won good trial for this race at Sandown and prior to that had scored under heavy conditions at Windsor. With the ground sure to suit, he has an advantage. His pedigree doesn’t particularly excite but his efforts on the track are more important. He might have place claims.
10. The Pentagon – He’s consistent and has run well in decent company in Ireland but he appears to have a bit to find nonetheless. Suspect he might want slightly better ground as well.
11. Young Rascal – Won the Chester Vase and is certainly on an upward curve. He’s bred for this kind of test and really looks a major player. He is the biggest danger to the favourite.
12. Zabriskie – Third in the Dante was probably his best effort to date. He is sired by Frankel and if the mighty Frankel wasn’t thought suited by running in the Derby then it would be surprising if his son is.

Summary – Saxon Warrior will take a lot of beating but given that he is odds-on, it might be worth taking a chance on the better priced Young Rascal.