Irish Derby Preview

Jim Bolger will saddle Moonlight Magic in Saturday's G1 Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby at the Curragh in an attempt to give Godolphin consecutive wins in Ireland's premier Classic following the triumph of Jack Hobbs 12 months ago.

Moonlight Magic was disappointing when trailing in last of 16 runners behind Harzand in the G1 Investec Derby at Epsom earlier in the month.

However, the beautifully-bred colt had previously won the G3 Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial at Leopardstown, defeating Shogun and Idaho, who both re-oppose, having finished 15th and third, respectively, at Epsom.

Clearly, Moonlight Magic failed to run his race in the Investec Derby.

Bolger said: "I don't think Moonlight Magic handled the track at Epsom, and I don't think he was on top of his game on the day.
"He was quiet after the race. But he has perked up a bit since. Ideally, I'd like another week," he added.

The Irish Derby was first run in 1866. A total of 17 horses have completed the English-Irish Derby double, a select band that the Aga Khan's Harzand will attempt to join. He is sure to be suited by the galloping nature of the course at the Curragh.

Harzand was lame on the morning of the race at Epsom, yet he recovered to run the race of his career that afternoon. He has plenty of stamina in his pedigree, yet he also has that touch of class that may make him an Arc contender later in the season.

Red Verdon is an interesting runner, having finished sixth in the Derby at Epsom, coming from back in the field. He shows promise, though he may be more effective over shorter distances.

Bolger expects Lucida to run an improved race in the G1 Pretty Polly Stakes on Sunday.

"She's very well and I'm expecting a good run. She didn't really get a clear run at Ascot."