'He's still is a bit of a baby, but he is growing up' - Delacroix now 10-1 for the Derby after stylish Ballysax win

High Chaparral was the last horse from Ballydoyle to do the Ballysax-Derby double in 2002, but Delacroix delivered the sort of professional performance that suggests he will be a big player at Epsom no matter who shows up in opposition.

Delacroix made every yard under a no-nonsense Ryan Moore ride and never looked in danger. He was value for every bit of the two-and-a-quarter-length winning margin and Betfair and Paddy Power cut him to 10-1 (from 16) for the Derby. 

Harzand also won the Ballysax on the way to Epsom glory in 2016, and the year before High Chaparral the mighty Galileo also did the double. This race has history as a proper Derby trial.

Ballydoyle legends High Chaparral and Galileo returned to Leopardstown for the Derrinstown Derby Trial before Epsom, and Delacroix will do likewise, with Aidan O'Brien calling him a baby who still has a bit of growing up to do. 

The trainer was winning the Group 3 for the 12th time and said: "You’d have to be very happy. He was always babyish and he's still is a bit of a baby, but he is growing up.

"I think he’ll come back here for the Derby Trial if everything is well, and racing will only help him."

He added: "We always thought he would stay well and he’s a fine big, powerful horse. He’ll improve plenty fitness-wise. He quickened very well in the straight and is not one who will overrace."

Delacroix was strongly supported into 4-7 at the off, having edged out to 4-5 at one stage earlier in the day, and odds-on backers never had a moment's worry as he outclassed his six rivals. Stablemate Lambourn finished second with Tiberius Thunder back in third for Amo Racing and David Egan. 

The Lion In Winter remains the 7-2 favourite for the Derby with Paddy Power despite the fact he is unlikely to make the 2,000 Guineas beforehand, but it is safe to say Delacroix put his name into the hat, particularly as O'Brien is expecting big improvement when we see him next. 

Betfred Derby (4.30 Epsom, June 7)

Paddy Power: 7-2 The Lion In Winter, 7 Twain, 10 Delacroix, Expanded, Ruling Court, 25 Stanhope Gardens, 28 Aftermath, 33 Acapulco Bay, Falconer, I Am I Said, Starzintheireyes, Tennessee Stud, 40 bar.

Read this next:

'Unusual' late bloomers could spearhead Aidan O'Brien's 2,000 Guineas challenge with doubts over The Lion In Winter  

Looking for free bets? Racing Post have got the best offers, all in one place. Visit racingpost.com/freebets to find out more.