'Looks, balance, stride and pedigree': Derby winner has it all

Aidan O’Brien keeps the faith in Auguste Rodin to land a ninth Betfred Derby, while an unruly 66/1 shot almost springs a surprise

- MARCUS ARMYTAGE

The Derby Festival at Epsom, Epsom Downs Racecourse, Surrey

AUGUSTE RODIN, a beautifully put-together colt by the late Japanese super sire Deep Impact, gave Aidan O’Brien a record-extending ninth Derby win when beating King Of Steel half a length in the 244th running of the race.

As ever, the race only really began to take shape after they had descended the hill and straightened up off Tattenham Corner for home. Crossing the track 3½ furlongs out, King Of Steel, a 66/1 shot only twice raced, not seen out this season and well beaten on soft behind Auguste Rodin in the Futurity as a two-year-old, went for home under Kevin Stott.

Frankie Dettori’s final Derby ride, Arrest, briefly gave his supporters hope, but on quick ground his legs were everywhere and, as he faded, a bunch of hopefuls packed up three lengths behind King Of Steel jostling for room. It was soon clear, though, that even with eight rivals still in front of him, Auguste Rodin and Ryan Moore on the outside were the only danger.

It was not instant, but there was an inevitability about the Ballydoyle colt’s run and he finally reeled in King Of Steel inside the last furlong. The grey White Birch ran on past the whole field to finish 4 ¾ lengths third, with Sprewell fourth.

“GREAT FUN TO RIDE”

WHETHER Auguste Rodin goes on to conquer The Curragh, Longchamp or, in time, the breeding sheds, his victory will go down as one of Aidan O’Brien’s greatest training achievements, after he beat just two home in the 2000 Guineas. It was a salutary lesson in keeping the faith.