Investec Derby Trial, Epsom
Race Result
1st Cracksman 4/6 fav
2nd Permian 11/2
3rd Bay Of Poets 14/1
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Race Report
Cracksman just got up in the nick of time to land the Investec Derby Trial at Epsom under Frankie Dettori on Wednesday.
The John Gosden-trained son of Frankel was having just his second racecourse appearance and he took a while to get to grips with the challenge inside the final couple of furlongs as Permian set sail for home under Franny Norton.
It looked as though Mark Johnston’s horse was going to hold on inside the final furlong, but a late thrust from Cracksman ensured he remains unbeaten in two starts.
Permian was beaten a short head into second, with Bay Of Poets third.
Sky Bet trimmed the winner to 10/1 from 12s for the Investec Derby in June.
Gosden was winning a third consecutive renewal of the Derby Trial, having struck with Christophermarlowe in 2015 and So Mi Dar last season.
Cracksman carries the black and white silks made famous by Golden Horn, the 2015 Derby and Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe hero.
Reaction
John Gosden: "They went no pace and he was truly shut in and couldn't get out. I was delighted how he picked up. I did say to the owner before this horse is pretty laid-back and very inexperienced on the track. I think more pace he would have won easier. I like the fact he finished strong. The talk about Frankels being over exuberant, this guy is so laid-back. I'm very pleased with him and he will come on a bundle for it. We will go for another run, whether it is Chester or York, we will see how he comes out of the race."
Frankie Dettori: "He has been very green and lazy at home. We got him here to educate him. Everything fell right. He jumped OK and got a nice tow into the race. They slowed him right up and it was a three-furlong sprint, which would not suit this horse but at least he learnt how to quicken down the hill and get out of trouble. It was a good, educational run."
