Godolphin Colt Must Pass Derby Test

Godolphin racing manager Simon Crisford is eager for Day Pass to prove he has the potential for a trip to Kentucky when he contests the UAE Derby tomorrow.

The three-year-old was disappointing on his debut for Sheikh Mohammed's operation, finishing fourth in a conditions race, and Crisford is hoping to see a vast improvement from the American colt in the 2million nine-furlong event.

'Day Pass came to Dubai a little bit late from America and we were in a bit of a catch up situation to get him to race here in time for the UAE Derby, and he hadn't done a lot of work,' explained Crisford.

'We knew at the very best he was a little bit short, a little bit keen, and when he got to the bottom of the stretch he took a big blow.

'It was also probably too far for him.

'But while we're using that as an excuse, a lack of fitness, he was a little bit rusty, nevertheless we thought he'd run better than that.

'Although he's improved fitness-wise, ability-wise he has to step up.'

Crisford revealed that Day Pass will be returning to stateside but in exactly what capacity will be determined by his UAE Derby performance.

'He'll definitely go back to America but Saturday will tell us whether he can run in the Kentucky Derby and tell us exactly what we're dealing with,' he added.

'We think he's got plenty of quality but whether he's good enough to win the Kentucky Derby is another ball game altogether ? and Saturday will tell us that.'

(C) PA Sport