Derby outsiders on trial at Chester

Three Vodafone Derby entries are among seven runners declared for the Victor Chandler Chester Vase on the opening day of the three-day May meeting on the Roodee tomorrow.

However, none of the trio figure prominently in the sponsor`s ante-post betting with Dawari 50-1, Mr Combustible 66-1 and Prizeman at 100-1 for the premier Classic at Epsom on June 9th.

Dawari, trained by Sir Michael Stoute, is owned by the Aga Khan whose colours were carried to victory in the 1981 renewal by Shergar before his record-breaking victory in the Derby itself. Dawari lost his maiden tag at Windsor two weeks ago.

Prizeman, from the Richard Hannon stable, was a useful two-year-old and was only seventh to Express Tour in the UAE Derby on his reappearance at Nad Al Sheba in March.

Barry Hills is double-handed with Mr Combustible being accompanied by Hyderabad. Both horses are still maidens.

Michael Bell, whose Housemaster was first past the post two years ago only to be demoted to fourth for causing interference, hopes for better luck with Snowstorm.

Golden Wells, from Mark Johnston`s Middleham stable, is the only unbeaten runner in the field, having won at Musselburgh and Newbury this spring.

The line-up is completed by the Paul Cole-trained Archduke Ferdinand, who was five and a half lengths third to Golden Wells at Newbury.

Golden Wells`s trainer believes that the outcome of the race will decide which direction the horse`s career goes in.

'I still have a few reservations about his form. I still feel he has something to prove. It was a bit disappointing that Welsh Border, who he beat at Newbury, flopped at Newmarket. That didn`t help,' said Johnston.

'His wins have been on soft ground and we`re not sure what he`s beaten. But each time Kevin (Darley) has said he would be better on better ground over a longer trip so it`s going to be a true test tomorrow.

'I have been pleasantly surprised by him on the track so far but let`s hope that he`s just a lazy horse at home and that we really have got something special but we won`t assume that until he proves it.

'We`ll take it as it comes - one race at a time - and tomorrow will decide which direction we go.'