Gosden Builds Strong Derby Team

   John Gosden holds the enviable position of training two of the top three horses in the betting for the G1 Epsom Derby June 6 in Golden Horn (GB) (Cape Cross {Ire}) and Jack Hobbs (GB) (Halling) and the Newmarket trainer could yet saddle a lively third string for the Epsom Classic in Christophermarlowe (Tapit). Fast ground is a prerequisite for the colt who surrendered his unbeaten record when third to Kilimanjaro (Ire) (High Chaparral {Ire}) in Lingfield’s Listed Derby Trial May 9, but his unbeaten course form (two from two at Epsom) on the unique Derby track is something Gosden is keen to utilise to his advantage. The trainer is also willing to excuse Christophermarlowe’s only defeat and commented,”He’s fine, he just found the ground sticky and holding [at Lingfield]. He’s got an easy action. He flicks his toe out, very much in the style of an American horse – he is American-bred, after all”. Gosden added, “If it happened to come up fast for the Derby then he could still run as we know he acts on the track. I know they water, so it’s good ground on the Friday, but if it was baking hot it could soon dry up quickly.” Christophermarlowe is owned in partnership by Michael Tabor and Gosden’s wife Rachel Hood.