Study of Man wins the French Derby

Study of Man (37/10), highlighted on page 140 of Ahead On The Flat under Classic Contenders, provided Pascal Bary with his sixth win in the Prix du Jockey Club at Chantilly. The son of Deep Impact had made a big impression when winning in Group 2 company at Saint-Cloud on his previous start and he confirmed the view with a gutsy display here. Positioned in midfield early on, he quickened through a gap once turning for home before digging deep late on to repel any number of challenges. A half length scorer, he is a beautifully bred colt from the family of Kingmambo and Miesque. While effective over ten furlongs, there is no reason why he won't stay a mile and a half which brings the Prix de L'Arc de Triomphe into the equation. The favourite and French 2000 Guineas winner Olmedo was perfectly positioned turning for home and held every chance. However, Jean-Claude Rouget's charge appeared to run out of stamina eventually finishing a well held thirteenth. Expect to see him return to a mile next time.

Following the disappointing run of Silver Dust at Ripon last week - I don't think he handled the track and I suggest keeping an eye on him - I am loathed to pass on anymore information regarding unraced two year olds. However, whilst working at Hamilton last Thursday, David Allan was complimentary about the Tim Easterby trained Obee Jo. A son of Kodiac who cost 16,000gns, Allan said he is a huge colt but is well regarded at Great Habton. He makes his debut in an eighteen runner six furlongs maiden auction stakes at Leicester on Monday (2.10). Drawn in stall 5, he may be worth a small each-way investment.