Last Ran: 6th June 2009

Can the 2000 Guineas winner Sea The Stars 11/4 go on to win the Derby, the bookies believe he stands a chance, sending him off as this years favourite.

For a horse to acheive both they must obviously possess exceptional ability and although the John Oxx trained colt looks of real quality there are doubts about whether he will get the trip here.

Looking at the Guineas/Derby stats just thirty five have done the double out of hundred and fifty contenders so the odds are stacked against it happening but he is a classy sort that will give himself every chance.

His laid back attitude and temperament will help his cause, soft ground won't suit but given the right conditions on the day anything is possible.

Johnny Murtagh had the enviable task of choosing between Fame And Glory 4/1 and Rip Van Winkle 4/1 and has decided to go with the latter who came fourth in the Guineas.

Murtagh has rode three of the last nine winners here and news that Seamus Heffernan will partner the Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial winner, Fame And Glory saw a shift towards Rip Van Winkle who took fourth slot in the 2000 Guineas.

Both are trained by Aiden O' Brien who also lines up Masterofthehorse 14/1, Age Of Aquarius 22/1, Black Bear Island 17/2 and Golden Sword 40/1.

Godophin's Kite Wood 25/1 looks interesting, he came fifth behind Black Bear Island in the Dante Stakes but like most of Godophin's horses should be all the better for that run. The trip should suit, give him good ground and he could run close.

Connections of Crowded House 20/1 will be hoping he can regain the sparkle he so possesed as a two year old which he seems to have lost, this is quite an open race so don't dismiss this one lightly.

Odds quoted are available at William Hill, they are subject to change so check before you bet.

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