Racing: Cape has time on her side

CAPE VERDI can win the Derby on Saturday, but only if: she stays a mile and a half; acts at Epsom, and handles the ground if it turns soft. That is the view of Chris Wright, Timeform's time expert, who personally fancies Greek Dance, the winner of the Glasgow Stakes at York.

Wright says: "Cape Verdi recorded a time figure of 131 when winning the 1,000 Guineas. That puts her 6lb clear of King Of Kings, who notched a 129 in the 2,000 and must concede 5lb to the filly on Saturday.

"However, the doubts about Cape Verdi being equally effective over a mile and a half at Epsom mean that odds of around 4-1 hardly represent value.

Wright adds: "This year's Derby looks a good race and there have been several decent trials. King Of Kings may not stay the distance, especially if it turns soft, but the 2,000 Guineas fifth Haami (122) should. City Honours (117) ran well in the Dante while High-Rise (112) impressed in the Lingfield Derby Trial.

"But, the one I like is Greek Dance (114), who was impressive for an inexperienced colt in the Glasgow Stakes and should stay well."

Wright feels the Oaks is harder to fathom. He says: "The race has cut up and, although Midnight Line has a pacemaker, it could still be a muddling race. Cloud Castle (119) is top on her Newmarket 1,000 Guineas run and should stay further but she hardly impressed in the Irish 1,000 Guineas at the Curragh last time. High And Low has done nothing on the clock but showed a good turn of foot to win the Cheshire Oaks. That could stand her in good stead."