Exciting Derby Semi-Final Preview
First Semi-Final: Analysing the Contenders
De Lahdedah: Leading the pack is De Lahdedah, a top contender among Liam Dowling’s trio. With ten wins in top-class Irish company, De Lahdedah boasts exceptional speed at all stages of the four-bend distance. Despite a narrow defeat to Crafty Shivoo in the third round, De Lahdedah qualified in the quarter-finals, showcasing a blend of luck and talent. Better drawn against the rail tonight, he aims to secure his place in the finals.
Edwards: Patrick Janssens, a seasoned Derby winner at Towcester, brings Edwards, who has defied long odds to qualify in the last two rounds. Despite the challenge, Edwards remains in peak condition under Janssens' expert guidance, making his qualification chances noteworthy.
Gaytime Nemo: Defending champion Gaytime Nemo, trained by Graham Holland, has shown his enduring class throughout this year’s campaign. Overcoming a poor start in the quarter-finals, Nemo’s determination and Holland’s expertise make him a strong contender for back-to-back finals.
Whyaye Man: Mark Wallis’s Whyaye Man is an underrated performer with a track record of excelling regardless of the competition level. His previous wins at the Derby Plate and the Blue Riband final demonstrate his capability, making him a formidable competitor.
Cross Tokyo: Despite being winless in fourteen starts, Maxine Locke’s Cross Tokyo consistently finishes strong, with eight second-place and four third-place finishes. His late surges and resilience make him a potential qualifier, albeit at long odds.
Boylesports Bob: Paul Hennessy’s Boylesports Bob delivered a career-best performance in the quarter-finals, winning by a remarkable 10 1/2 lengths. Known for his strong finishes, Bob needs a good start to maintain his momentum against top-class rivals. If he’s near the pace by halfway, he will be tough to keep out of the frame.
Predictions: 1-5-6 Betting Guide: 11/8, 16/1, 7/2, 20/1, 25/1, 11/8
Second Semi-Final: Key Matchups
King Memphis: Liz McNair’s unbeaten British Bred superstar, King Memphis, faces a tough draw in trap 4. Despite audible gasps at the draw, it’s worth noting Memphis set a new track record from this position in the first round. His main challenge comes from The Other Kobe, the 2023 Irish Derby Champion.
The Other Kobe: Now under Graham Holland’s training, The Other Kobe retains his youthful vigour. After a strong initial run, Kobe needs to lead early to challenge Memphis effectively. If not in front early, Kobe’s progress could be at risk, making for a fascinating race within a race.
Ballymac Gizmo: Liam Dowling’s young hopeful, Ballymac Gizmo, has consistently qualified, displaying a promising learning curve. If Kobe leads, Gizmo’s late finish could see him tracking closely behind, ready to capitalize.
Droopys Pivotel: The youngest contender, Maxine Locke’s Droopys Pivotel, faces a daunting task between Kobe and Memphis. With just seven starts, he needs luck to navigate this challenge but has shown enough promise to be a wildcard.
Ballymac Slick: Another of Dowling’s entries, Ballymac Slick, has flourished at Towcester, showing strong performances in the early rounds. Needing a bit of early luck, Slick is expected to finish powerfully.
Churchfield Syd: Trained by Richard Rees, Churchfield Syd aims to follow in the footsteps of Rees’s illustrious family legacy. With strong early pace and two wins in the last stages, Syd needs a quick start but has the heart and form to surprise.
Predictions: 4-5-1 Betting Guide: 20/1, 3/1, 12/1, 1/1, 11/2, 11/2