Three Irish runners amongst Saratoga Derby field There is plenty of Irish interest Stateside this evening with Bolshoi Ballet, Cadillac and State Of Rest all lining up in the Saratoga Derby. Bolshoi Ballet disappointed when favourite for the Cazoo Derby but the Aidan O’Brien-trained colt, who was found to have been struck into on his off hind at Epsom, bounced back in style when finishing strongly to take the Belmont Derby last month. The Galileo colt returns to the States in search of further Grade 1 glory, with Ryan Moore again in the saddle, but this time faces a strong challenge from fellow Irish-trained colts Cadillac and State Of Rest. Cadillac was a Group 2 winner last year and also scored on his belated seasonal debut in the ARM Holding International Stakes at the Curragh on Irish Derby day. Trainer Jessica Harrington’s daughter Kate said, “Cadillac has travelled over well and has a good draw in stall four. “The nine and a half furlongs trip is good for him and it’s probably the last opportunity for him in a Grade 1 against his own age group. Shane (Foley) is going over to take the ride.” State Of Rest has failed to add to a debut Fairyhouse maiden win last year but Joseph O’Brien’s charge has shown some smart form since, notably when a close-up third to Chindit in the Champagne Stakes at Doncaster. Charlie Appleby sends over Secret Protector while the locally-trained Cellist and Du Jour, third and fourth in the Belmont Derby, are also among the 11 declared runners. The race is scheduled for 10.10pm BST.
