Italian Derby: Open edition
The Italian Derby is one of the richest races in the world, with prize money going all the way up to €800,800. On the roll of honor, we find names like Varenne, Robert Bi, First of Mind, Expo Wise As, Alrajah One and Bleff Dipa. In last year’s edition, Örjan Kihlström won with Gabrioz for Alessandro Gocciadoro. Kihlström became only the third non-native driver to win. Robin Bakker won in 2013 with Robert Bi, while Lutfi Kolgjini won in 2006 with Glen Kronos.
This year’s edition, scheduled for 17:35 on Sunday, looks open, with several contenders looking to challenge the favorites.
Favorites
Unfortunately, one of the favorites, Inimitable, was an early scratch and will not participate.
Il Trio Jet - Santo Mollo
In 15 lifetime starts, he has finished on the podium every time and taken victory eight times. With post 3, he’s in a good position to try for the lead, which seems to be his preferred position. Can he hold off the fast finishers from behind?
Iceberg LP - Andrea Guzzinati
Rocked home in his elimination from further back in the field. Has been prepared for the Derby and has proven that his position in the field is something he can overcome.
Challengers
Iambellesi TQ - Marco Stefani
Like his stable companion from post 1, a reliable and consistent performer, but a faster starter. Will be looking for a back to follow to be able to use his strengths. Compared to some other runners, he’s not the fastest finisher in the field, but belongs on the tickets.
Ideal Turdance - Antonio Di Nardo
Raced from the death seat in the eliminations but still made life difficult for Inimitable before finishing second. The post position gives him options to look for a better trip. Not expected to fight for the lead.
In The Night Gar - Alessandro Gocciadoro
The only filly in this year’s open Derby, but also one of the more recognizable names in the field. In The Night Gar won the Breeders Course for Fillies at Solvalla in March. She has mostly won against the mares and finished third in her elimination after leading the entire race, but struggled slightly in the closing stages. If her form has improved, she’s still dangerous, but the post position will not make it easy.
Outsiders
Ippopotamo TQ - Enrico Bellei
A reliable performer who is used to coming from behind. Doesn’t appear to be the fastest starter, which might put him in a difficult position from post 1. He’ll need to find something extra or hope for a good trip to use his speed in the final stages.
Impressive Dance - Romano Tamburrano
Stepped up in class in the eliminations. He stayed close after getting the perfect trip behind the leader, Il Trio Jet, but couldn’t stay close enough. Difficult from post 7.
Italo SSG - Andrea Farolfi
A fantastic starter, but post 8 will make it difficult for him. Not being able to race on the inside line makes it tougher.
Indianfire WF, Illinois Best, Itan Pal Ferm, Incanto Three and Ilias D’Arc finished fourth in their eliminations. A big step up in form and performance is needed to be in the conversation for the top five.
In partnership with Travstugan
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