Trip boosts Libertarian chances of reversing form in St Leger

With St Leger clues emerging from the latest renewal of the Epsom Derby, punters have scope to profit from ante-post betting on the oldest of Britain’s flat classics.

But despite Ruler Of The World’s triumph in the Derby, as tipped up by the Ladbrokes News team here, there is reason enough to avoid investment in his 4/1 favouritism to succeed at Doncaster in September.

Firstly, the fact that no horse since Reference Point in 1987 has followed up Epsom success with a St Leger triumph must be of huge detriment to Aidan O’Brien’s fourth Derby winner’s chances.

And though the unbeaten colt dashed heavy favourite Dawn Approach’s chance of a Triple Crown tilt at Epsom, there was arguably more to like about the way Libertarian finished his race, especially considering the longer St Leger trip.

This year’s Dante winner, Libertarian is currently available at 6/1 for the Doncaster showpiece, and given the way he flashed home in the Derby, there is much to like about that price in a race run over 1m 6f.

Elaine Burke’s charge certainly looks ready for that trip, and surely would have pipped Ruler Of The World at Epsom had the race been run over a similar distance.

Libertarian is set to have at least two preparatory runs prior to Doncaster, with a crack at the Irish Derby, where he could renew acquaintances with Ruler Of The World, and the King George distinct possibilities.

A consistently quick early gallop will aid the colt in either race, and reproduction of his Derby second or better would ensure the slashing of his St Leger odds.

Of other options in the betting meanwhile, 8/1 Talent makes most appeal after flying home past Secret Gesture in the Investec Oaks to land a one-two for trainer Ralph Beckett.

A 20/1 shot that day, the filly has now won her last three starts and never finished outside the place money in her four total outings.

She therefore must tempt as an 8/1 prospect, though the assistance of champion jockey Richard Hughes is not guaranteed at Doncaster.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.