Betting tips / Timeform / 30 June 2012 / Leave a comment Bet Now View Market

Timeform throws up the question on everyone's lips: Will the Irish Derby be a cakewalk for Camelot?

Akeed Mofeed won a maiden at Leopardstown and second in Beresford here last year. Dam related to Johann Quatz and Hernando, both of whom stayed 1½m, but absence an obvious concern and Murtagh prefers Born To Sea.

Astrology was ipressive on his 2-y-o bow and continued progress this term, easy winner of Dee Stakes at Chester before good third in Derby earlier this month. Well below that level at Royal Ascot last time, though.

Born To Sea landed a listed race on Curragh debut last year. Found out at the top level since, although wasn't beaten far in St James's Palace Stakes last time, and isn't certain to stay this trip.

Camelot is unbeaten in four starts, becoming just the third since Nijinsky to land the 2000 Guineas/Derby double on his latest start. Easily the best 3-y-o seen out this year and capable of better still.

Imperial Monarch is a beautifully-bred colt who hasn't taken long to develop in a smart performer, landing maiden here last year and Sandown Classic Trial in April. Latest run easily ignored and this trip will suit.

Light Heavy is unbeaten in three starts at Leopardstown this year, including Ballysax Stakes (by 2½ lengths from Call To Battle) and Derrinstown Derby Trial (by neck from Tower Rock). Type to keep on progressing.

Speaking of Which landed the odds in Cork maiden in April prior to spreadeagling the opposition in the Gallinule Stakes here last time. Repeat of that effort should see him in the mix and likely to stay 1½m.

Timeform Verdict
1. Camelot
2. Imperial Monarch
3. Speaking of Which


Timeform's View

Aidan O'Brien has a tremendous record in this race and it will be something of a surprise if Epsom hero Camelot fails to give him his seventh consecutive victory and tenth overall. Imperial Monarch may well make it a 1/2 for Ballydoyle, with Speaking of Which and Light Heavy fighting it out for third.