As the highly-anticipated Epsom Derby draws ever closer, many have their eyes peeled for any pointers and the much-fancied Desert Crown definitely made a statement on Thursday.
(This article was originally published on 26.05.2022)
The Sir Michael Stoute-trained Classic, 15/8 to win the Derby, hopeful worked on a watered strip of a Newmarket gallop in the morning, as connections watched on before they unleash him on the famous undulations of the Downs on June 4th.
The Saeed Suhail-owned colt worked with another one of the owner's contingent, Solid Stone - a Group winner in his own right - but showed that six-year-old a clean pair of heels to lengthen clear of him.
Raymond pleased with Newmarket work
Racing manager to Suhail, Bruce Raymond said: "Everybody was very pleased with him. He worked with Solid Stone and went very nicely - you couldn't have wished for more.
"He hasn't been the most spectacular work horse, but he hasn't been doing too much before that. He hasn't done much since the Dante - this was the strongest and fastest he's gone since York."
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After a devastating victory in the Dante Stakes, for which Stoute made everyone aware that he was only just ready, Desert Crown was propelled in to x/x for the Derby.
And many experts are waxing lyrical about this son of Nathaniel's chances as he bids to give Stoute a first winner in the Epsom Classic since Workforce in 2010.
"He was only just ready for York, three weeks before and he wouldn't have run anywhere," added Raymond. "I think he surprised Sir Michael with the way he won. I don't think anybody would swap him for anything."
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