Masked Marvel Makes Bold Statement Ahead of Derby

More of the Goodwood action is having a pronounced effect on ante post markets building up to the Epsom Derby meeting on the first weekend in June as Masked Marvel (Montjeu) saw his priced halved for the classic by a number of prominent bookmakers going to around 25/1 or 33/1 from a 40/1 or 66/1 listing.

The Cocked Hat Stakes was a listed contest on the Goodwood card on Wednesday and the John Gosden-trained colt earned a 95 rating with William Buick up for the fourth time. It probably wasn't the class of the contest as much the manner of the victory that prompted the price drop as it was his first victory since a maiden score at Sandown back in September. Only two horses from nine that contest has since gone on to even break his maiden.

Two forays into Group 3 company didn't fare so well for Masked Marvel as he was a disappointing fifth at Sandown following a sixth place finish in the Autumn Stakes at Ascot.

Speaking to the Racing Post, conditioner John Gosen declared that “he's a horse we've always liked... "His work has improved since and he's got a nice mind for a Montjeu. He stays well and quickened well today.”

The ante post action is getting especially competitive for the upcoming Epsom Derby as the Queen's horse Carlton House (Street Cry) maintains the possibility of a Derby/Royal Wedding double for the reigning monarch. The Queen is still looking to break her duck in the key summer Classic and Carlton House has emerged as the breakout contender for the 2011 Investec Derby following a 1.5 length score in the Group 2 Dante Stakes.

Ante post markets currently have prices on well over 100 contenders looking to take a shot at Derby glory but one who won't be there is Frankel (Galileo) who has his sights set on later classics in the season and a possible blockbuster showdown with living legend miler Goldikova (Anabaa) at Royal Ascot.