steadied start, settled in rear, closed on leaders over 6f out, every change 2f out, hung badly left to centre of course and one pace afterwards
held up 3rd, reminder over 4f out, ridden to challenge inside final 3f, led narrowly just over 1f out, kept on under pressure, headed final stride
soon led, headed over 4f out, soon beaten and eased over 1f out
tracked leader, led over 4f out, hard pressed well over 2f out, headed narrowly just over 1f out, rallied well inside final furlong to lead again final strides
Just four runners contest this Derby trial and we will side with Indigo Cat, Belenus and Unfurled look the likely dangers, as Tragedian has a lot to prove. The O'Brien yard already have a strong hand in the Epsom classic with the likes of Gypsy King and Grand Central but this son of Storm Cat could turn out to be an able substitute. He was most impressive when landing a Lingfield maiden earlier this month and can only step up on that effort. Belenus hasn't been seen since taking a juvenile maiden at Newmarket in July. The trainer was quoted as saying he was one of the best in the yard so this son of Dubai Millennium has to be respected. Unfurled beat subsequent winner Glistening by ten lengths over a slightly shorter trip here last time. The extra distance should suit and he can make his presence felt. So a fascinating contest and Indigo Cat is our idea of the winner.
Belenus (IRE) 13-8fav (9-0) Tracked leader, led 1f out, ran on well, won at Newmarket 7f 2yo mdn (D) gf in Jul beating Frith (9-0) by 1 1/2l, 15 ran.
Indigo Cat (USA) 11-4jt-fav (8-11) Raced mid-division, ran green into straight, edged left from 2f out, strong run final furlong, led last strides, won at Lingfield 1m 2f mdn stk (5) gd beating Gems of Araby (8-6) by 3/4l, 13 ran.
Tragedian (USA) 14-1 (8-10) Led after 1f, headed 2f out and soon weakened, 7th of 8, 7l behind Fracas (8-10) at Sandown 1m 2f 3yo Grp 3 (1) gs in Apr.
Unfurled (IRE) 6-1 (9-0) In touch, led inside final 4f, in command and drew right away over 1f out, easily, won at Goodwood 1m 2f 3yo mdn (4) gd in Apr beating Glistening (9-0) by 10l, 12 ran.