Aidan O’Brien’s search for a twelfth Epsom Derby was strengthened on Wednesday as Benvenuto Cellini gave him his twelfth Chester Vase. The son of Frankel has prominently figured in the Derby market throughout the summer, and justified his pitch in abundance.
His stablemate Proposition set a good gallop under Wayne Lordan, racing five lengths clear throughout. Benvenuto Cellini sat third under Ryan Moore, and once approaching the bend he kicked clear with ease by four-and-a-quarter lengths.
Aidan O’Brien won the race with Lambourn last season who went on to Derby success, and the immediate reaction from connections suggest a repeat is on the cards.
Speaking to the Press Association after the race, via Racing TV, Ryan Moore said: “He’s got a lovely pedigree and had good form last year. It’s nice to get him over a mile and a half and get a fresh start with him.
“The race was a little disjointed with the horse taking back for second. But he quickened up well from the four to the three before getting a little tired in the straight. He will come on for this and I’m very happy.”
“He’s a quality colt” – Ryan Moore
Ridden twice apiece by Wayne Lordan and Christophe Soumillon, this was the first time Ryan Moore had partnered with him on track. Moore continued: “I’ve sat on him a bit before and he’s a quality colt. He was a good winner for Christophe at Leopardstown and then didn’t like the bad ground at Doncaster. This was nice carrying a penalty which is not always easy, so I thought it was a good performance.
“I’m not sure where he would be in the order right now. We have a couple of more horses to see. I’m looking forward to seeing what they do before Aidan will make his plan.”
Having shortened to a clear favourite in the market, Benvenuto Cellini’s Derby ticket looks assured. As to whether he’ll be the main hope for Coolmore remains to be seen, as Pierre Bonnard and Christmas Day will attempt to bolster the squad in the next week.
Part owner of Benvenuto Cellini Paul Smith discussed the performance, as he noted: “He was a classy juvenile. And back on better ground today, stepping up in trip, Ryan was very happy with him.
“I would certainly imagine he will be going to the Derby after that” continued Smith. He’s always been a very high-class horse who’s shown a lot at home and has a beautiful stride on him. He’s got a really nice temperament and we’ve always been hopeful he would develop into a nice horse.
Though not in attendance at Chester, Aidan O’Brien told the Press Association: “We were delighted with that. Ryan seemed to be very happy with him and we think the experience will do him good. Nicer ground helped him. He’s a good mover and he’s done well from two to three, so we’re very happy.”