Tullius Readying For Weekend Return

Andrew Balding's good money-spinner Tullius (Ire) (Le Vie Dei Colori {GB}) is all set to begin another campaign in Saturday's G3 Coral Winter Derby at Lingfield. The 8-year-old enjoyed a rewarding season last year winning the G2 Skybet York S. before finding things a bit tough in Group 1 company behind Fascinating Rock (Ire) (Fastnet Rock {Aus}) in the Qipco Champion S. at Ascot and Dylan Mouth (Ire) (Dylan Thomas {Ire}) in the Premio Roma at Capannelle. Owners Kennett Valley Thoroughbreds are hoping the 8-year-old retains all his significant ability and their racing manager Sam Hoskins said, “I think he's going to run. He was in the fast-track qualifier at Kempton on Wednesday, but we would have had to give 10lb to the other runners so we'll go for the Winter Derby which was the original plan. Unfortunately he's got a 5lb penalty but it's worth a go and the winner goes to the all-weather finals.”