INVESTEC DERBY CONTENDERS

MARCUS TOWNEND runs the rule over the leading horses in this year’s 238th Derby at Epsom next Saturday

SAXON WARRIOR (left) – Trained by Aidan O’Brien

Unbeaten colt whose added the 2000 Guineas to his win in last season’s Group One Racing Post Trophy. Unraced beyond a mile but promises to be better at longer distances. Hot favourite.

ROARING LION – John Gosden

Behind Saxon Warrior on the two occasions they have met but his clear-cut win in York’s Dante Stakes looked a season’s best run. Looks the favourite’s biggest threat.

MASAR – Charlie Appleby

Only won three of his eight races but a consistent performer who was third to Saxon Warrior in the 2000 Guineas. Place contender but a win may be a step too far.

KNIGHT TO BEHOLD – Harry Dunlop

Made much of the running when clear winner of the Lingfield trial, proving his mile and a half stamina in the process. No reason to see why that win was a fluke and another with frame claims.

HAZAPOUR – Dermot Weld

Frankie Dettori rides a colt who caused an upset when beating a pair of O’Brien colts in the Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial at Leopardstown. Closely related to 2016 winner Harzand.

DELANO ROOSEVELT – Aidan O’Brien

Only won one of his five race but finished well from off the pace when second to Hazapour at Leopardstown to suggest the extra quarter furlong he’ll face at Epsom will be right up his street.

YOUNG RASCAL – William Haggas

Physically imposing colt who had to overcome a slightly hampered run to hold off Dee Ex Bee in the Chester Vase. Going away that day, his stamina is proven and he will be running on at the finish.