Camelot confirmed his debut promise with a scintillating display in the Racing Post Trophy. He was sent of the well backed 10/11 favourite and there was never a moment of worry. Settled in rear by Joseph O'Brien he was travelling noticeably strongly as the field entered the final 2 furlongs. As the jockeys around him started to become more animated, O'Brien was still sitting pretty aboard the favourite. Approaching the final furlong he angled out for a run. The response was electric and instantaneous. He picked up the leaders in effortless style before drawing right away to win by 2 and a 1/4 lengths. The margin of victory was decisive but it still did not do the authority of his success justice because in reality he was value for far more. It might well be the case that the opposition are not up to much but you cannot fault the manner of victory which was most impressive. Whether quotes of 4/1 for the Derby represent 'value' or not is a different matter.
I was hoping for an impressive performance because the one thing this season has lacked is an impressive 2yo colt to look forward to over the winter. Born To Sea might confirm his early promise if he reappears as expected in the Group 3 Killavullan Stakes at the end of the month. Even if he cannot follow in the illustrious footsteps of his half-brother, Sea The Stars, Camelot is certainly one to look forward. He is a clear favourite for the Derby, and on this evidence deserves to be too. He is also challenging for favouritism for the 2000 Guineas, and , if allowed to take his chance, would be a threat to all because he doesn't look to be short of pace on this evidence. A very exciting prospect for next season.
Over the jumps, Master Minded was a disappointment at Aintree as he could only finish last of the three runners, with Albertas Run running out for hard fought win. Apparently he looked a little short and there are undoubtedly bigger targets ahead. He is certainly not one to right off on the back of one disappointing run. Over at Chepstow Fingal Bay announced himself as a novice hurdler of the highest order with a comfortable success in the Grade 2 Persian War Novices Hurdle on his debut over timber. It is a long way away, but he certainly looks the type to take his chance at the Festival in March. Also at Chepstow Tataniano ran out an impressive winner of the 2 mile handicap chase. He was a top class novice (impressive winner of the Maghull at Aintree) but has yet to really stamp his mark on the senior division after an interrupted campaign last time. On this evidence he looks right back to his best and looks like being a Nicholls' Champion Chase contender for 2012.
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