On balance, this juvenile has not achieved a great level of form but with a wealth of two-year-olds to choose you can be guaranteed that Camelot will be competitive at this grade. Presently favourite for the 2012 Derby, he has a lot to live up to.
Fencing has progressed with racing. After a satisfactory debut finishing third at Newmarket over 7f, he was substantially backed, winning the Washington Singer Listed race at Newbury readily. Gosden, commenting on ATR, noted that they had intended to run in the Royal Lodge (Group 2) but this son of Street Cry had a spot on his back which had hindered his training schedule. He continued, that although an exciting juvenile, he would make into a better three-year-old. It would seem unlikely Telwaar could reverse placing when a creditable second in the Washington Singer.
Zip Top is an interesting runner after being supplemented on Monday morning. A superbly bred juvenile, this son of Smart Strike is the first foal of Zofzig who was bought for $1,500,000 after winning both starts in the US. The Jim Bolger-trained two-year-old representing Sheikh Mohammed - adorning the maroon and white racing silks - looked slightly disappointing when third at Newmarket's Somerville Stakes (Group 3) over 7f. However, the form of that race has been franked with the fourth placed Crusaded winning the Middle Park (Group 1) in good style. The key to this youngster's chances could rest upon the step up to one mile which looks ideal.
Another colt stepping up significantly in class is *Enke. He won a Newmarket maiden over a mile with authority after finishing second on debut. In recent weeks, the Godolphin two-year-olds have been in sparkling form with a number of winning debutantes. Mahmood Al Zarooni has led the way for the boys in blue this season. A full brother to Group 3 winning Genius Beast out of an Oaks-winning mare, this bay colt by Kingmambo may need to progress but has the breeding and reputation to figure prominently in the betting.
Conclusion: A fascinating race with the emphasis on potential rather than proven form. Camelot has the reputation of a high-class juvenile, heading the betting for next year's Derby after winning a maiden simply proves the status of this two-year-old. The form of Zip Top has been boosted by the fourth - dropping back in distance - winning the Middle Park (Group 1). To be supplemented makes him worthy of respect and the step up to one mile a significant factor according to many astute judges. Fencing has proven a level of ability winning at Listed class in the style of a talent horse. While Enke may has much to prove after winning a maiden, he comes from a team in fine form a choice of talented juveniles. A difficult race to call but a fascinating race to savour.
*NR
HCE: ''Those who expected Camelot to further establish himself as a Classic contender had nothing but praise after an impressive win. Held up at the back, he sauntered clear in the style of an exciting prospect and potentially a star of the future.''