Star bids to shine brightest in Apprentices’ Derby

Galaxy Star will bid to bring Derby glory back to Barbury Castle Stables on Thursday when contesting the Quickslide Quick Ride Apprentices’ Derby at Epsom Downs.

The daughter of Planteur will take on six rivals at the home of the world-famous Betfred Derby when bidding to register her second success on the Flat, and a first since making a winning debut on the level at Kempton Park back in March.

And although Galaxy Star, who will be partnered for the third race in succession by Harry Vigors, could only finish eighth on her last start at Kempton Park, the team at home are optimistic of a bold show.

Robin Smith, assistant trainer, said: “Harry has ridden her on a couple of starts now. Even though she only finished eighth of twelve last time out at Kempton Park it was a good run and the winner has franked the form.

“It wasn’t an entirely straightforward the run round she got that day. She was stuck wide so I think you could mark the effort up. It was a case of getting a run on the all-weather into her while the ground was still quick.

“I think Epsom have had a nice drop of rain, which will suit her, and she seems in good form. I would hope she would handle Epsom well as she quite a neat, compact filly and she seems well balanced. We are hopeful of a good run.”

Spyce will make his first start since Royal Ascot when making the trip north to Doncaster on the same day to contest the Pertemps Network Handicap.

The son of Too Darn Hot, who has undergone a wind operation, has not been sighted since finishing ninth in the Golden Gates Stakes at the Royal meeting back in June.

And should all go well on Town Moor then an outing in next month’s Old Rowley Cup at Newmarket, a race that Alan won back in 2019 with Trueshan, could come under consideration

Robin said: “He is only just ready to start back as he had a bit of time off after his wind operation after Ascot. Rossa (Ryan) felt at Ascot that he would benefit for having his wind looked at so we got that done. His work has been good at home.

“His main aim is the Old Rowley Cup at Newmarket. The run will put him spot on for Newmarket next month.”