Benbatl finishes second to Permian

london — Benbatl finished a close second behind Permian in the G2 Dante Stakes — the leading trial for the Derby at Epsom Downs — over an extended 10 furlongs at York, UK, on Thursday, a Press release said.

The Saeed bin Suroor-trained colt raced in second early on before settling third behind two other Godolphin runners, the free-racing Swiss Storm (David Elsworth/Jim Crowley) on the outside and Wolf Country (Charlie Appleby/William Buick) who set a strong gallop for the 10 runners.

Benbatl regained the runnerup spot after entering the straight and quickened up for Pat Cosgrave to press for the lead with over two furlongs remaining. He held every chance as Wolf Country began to fade soon after and Permian went to the front. Benbatl ran on inside the final furlong to go down by three quarters of a length to Permian, who won in 2m 8.40s.

Crystal Ocean came home half a length back in third, with Wolf Country taking fifth as Syphax (Kevin Ryan/Jamie Spencer) and Swiss Storm finished seventh and ninth respectively.

“Benbatl has run very well – he was beaten by a horse with more experience. This is only Benbatl’s third race and the Derby is still an option for him,” said Saeed bin Suroor.

“Bentbatl will learn more and it looked like he was still keen in the race. He has been keen in the mornings but last time he worked he was more relaxed. I think he still needs to learn more and he will improve,” he added.

“Best Solution is very good and came out his Lingfield race really well. I am happy with him and a mile and a half is no problem. It looks like a mile and quarter may be the best trip for Benbatl. He needs to relax more in races for a mile and a half. But we will keep the options open for him and see how he comes out of today’s race. The horses are running very well and we also have some other Derby entries.”