Bolshoi Ballet - a value favourite or too short for the Derby?

'I won't be backing him for Epsom'

This season's Classic trials have, at times, felt more like tribulations. A performance of genuine star quality had not been found until Bolshoi Ballet danced away from his rivals at Leopardstown on Sunday.

It was inevitable he would jump to favouritism for the Cazoo Derby, and is now a general 2-1 shot, but I won't be backing him for Epsom.

That's not because he has no chance of winning, indeed, he appears to have a very good chance. But 2-1 is no value, and given the previously muddied waters I wouldn't be surprised if plenty of connections are emboldened to turn up next month.

More runners on a notoriously tricky track can lead to problems in running. Plus, we haven't had a winning Derby favourite since 2015 and 25-1 and 40-1 shots have obliged since then.
David Baxter, reporter

Watch Bolshoi Ballet win at Leopardstown

'He looks the most likely winner'

It's a tough question. It's probably about the right price as he certainly looks the most likely winner of the Derby at this stage.

York is still to come and who knows what might come out of the Dante, but it'll be a surprise if whatever wins that does so as impressively as Balshoi Ballet won the Derrinstown.
Graeme Rodway, tipster

Derrinstown report: Bolshoi Ballet 7-4 favourite for Derby after dominant Leopardstown win

'Other contenders now have to step up'

He is quite short now, although I think you still have to make him favourite after that performance as he was so dominant.

The form probably doesn't amount to much. Main rival Mac Swiney disappointed, while runner-up Lough Derg was off the bridle some way out and the rest of the field finished in a heap. But Bolshoi Ballet was in command from a long way out, he's got a beautiful long stride and I don't think this well-balanced colt will have any problems with Epsom.

It's difficult to pick holes on that display and other Derby contenders now have to step up.
James Hill, tipster

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