Gatsby Boost to Arod's Derby chance

The Grey Gatsby, who is trained by Kevin Ryan, beat Arod by three-quarters of a length in York's Dante Stakes last month, so his victory in today's Chantilly Classic, by no less than three lengths from runner-up Shamkiyr, was a welcome sight.

On a less happy note, the forecast for Epsom suggests rain will fall at the track on several days this week, and, while Saturday is expected to be fine and dry, there could be rain on Friday night.

Trainer Peter Chapple-Hyam said: "I hope it dries up before the Derby. Arod has done really well since the Dante and has filled out and got stronger. I couldn't be happier with him."

Newmarket-based Chapple-Hyam has been cantering the colt round Side Hill, a part of the Heath which is left-handed and runs downhill, as a way of teaching him to lead with his near fore leg. Countless Derbys have been won and lost on the left-handed, downhill sweeping bend that leads to Tattenham Corner and into Epsom's home straight.

Five-day declarations for this year's Investec Derby will be known late tomorrow morning.

Neither Qatar Racing or Pearl Bloodstock will be represented in this year's Investec Oaks, which is run on Friday, but Just The Judge, who last year won the Irish 1000 Guineas, is among five-day entries for the Gr.2 Princess Elizabeth Stakes (1.35), a mile contest which opens the two-day meeting.

Also entered for the opening card is Nova Champ, a winner this season at Newmarket, and a contender for the seven-furlong handicap (5.20) which concludes day one.