Derby Trial Drama at Cheltenham
The racing world turns its attention to Cheltenham this Wednesday afternoon as the Chester Vase takes centre stage in what promises to be a mouth-watering clash of three-year-old talent.
This £145,000 Group 3 contest over a mile and four furlongs has long been a crucial Derby trial, and with Aidan O'Brien fielding two runners against Charlie Appleby's progressive sort, we're in for a treat. The going description of Good, Good to Soft in places should suit most, but it's the quality of opposition that will truly test these emerging stars.
With just five runners going to post after two late withdrawals, this becomes a tactical affair where every move matters. The Cheltenham racecard rarely throws up such an intriguing puzzle this early in the season.
The Ballydoyle Battalion
Benvenuto Cellini arrives as the clear class act in this field, and Ryan Moore's booking speaks volumes about Aidan O'Brien's intentions. That rating of 112 puts him streets ahead of his rivals on paper, and draw five gives Moore plenty of options in what should be a steadily-run affair.
The son of Galileo has already shown he handles testing ground, and his work at home suggests he's ready to announce himself as a serious Derby contender. O'Brien doesn't send horses across the Irish Sea for Group races unless he means business, and this looks like a stepping stone to bigger things.
Proposition provides fascinating intrigue as O'Brien's second string. With no official rating yet, he's clearly still learning his trade, but the master of Ballydoyle rarely runs two unless both have genuine chances. W. M. Lordan gets the leg-up from the widest draw, which could prove crucial if this becomes a sprint finish.
Godolphin's Ace in the Hole
Del Maro represents the biggest danger to Ballydoyle's ambitions, and Charlie Appleby's three-year-olds have been in red-hot form this spring. William Buick knows exactly what this horse needs, and that inside draw could be gold dust if the pace collapses.
Rated 101, he's giving weight away to the favourite, but his progressive profile suggests there's plenty more to come. Appleby has a knack of producing his horses spot-on for these big occasions, and Del Maro's recent work suggests he's primed for a career-best effort.
The good ground with soft patches should play to his strengths, and if he can track the pace from his low draw, he could be perfectly positioned to pounce when it matters most.
The Supporting Cast
Mr Colonel brings solid form to the table for the Fahey team, and Shane Gray will be looking to steal a march on the big guns. His rating of 97 suggests he'll need to find significant improvement, but three-year-olds can progress rapidly at this time of year.
From draw six, he'll need luck in running, but if the pace is strong early, he could be the one picking up the pieces late on. Don't dismiss his chances entirely – stranger things have happened in Group races.
Mr Vettori completes the field for Jessica Harrington, with Shane Foley taking the ride. His rating suggests he's up against it here, but Harrington's horses often outrun their odds in these big contests.
Who Will Triumph in the Chester Vase?
This shapes up as a fascinating tactical battle where track position and timing will be crucial. The reduced field means there's less pace than ideal, which could set up a sprint finish that favours those with the best turn of foot.
Benvenuto Cellini looks the class act and should have too much quality for his rivals, but Del Maro represents serious value at likely odds. The Godolphin challenger has the perfect draw to stalk the leaders and could spring a surprise if the favourite doesn't fire.
For value hunters, Mr Colonel might be worth a small each-way interest if the market underestimates his chances of hitting the frame.
Selection: Benvenuto Cellini – Class should tell in the end, and Ryan Moore's presence suggests O'Brien expects a big run. The rating advantage is significant, and he looks ready to announce himself as a Derby contender.
Will the Going Favour Any Particular Runner?
The Good to Good to Soft ground should suit most runners, but it particularly plays to the strengths of Benvenuto Cellini, who has already proven his effectiveness on testing surfaces. Del Maro has shown versatility regarding ground conditions, making him a reliable each-way option regardless of any further rain.
Could This Be a Derby Trial to Remember?
Absolutely. The Chester Vase has a proud tradition of producing Derby contenders, and with O'Brien clearly using this as a stepping stone for Benvenuto Cellini, we could witness the emergence of a genuine Epsom hope. The quality of opposition will provide a stern test of his credentials, making this a must-watch affair for anyone with Derby fever.
