Cash flows for Camelot

Punters back Ballydoyle star into 4/7 for Derby

Punters are taking the plunge and going in for the kill. Camelot looks to be the shortest price Derby favourite since another Ballydoyle horse, Entrepreneur, in 1997.

The Michael Kinane-ridden Entrepreneur could only finish fourth on that occasion when 4/6, and Camelot is now into 4/7 with Boylesports as support continues to come.

Nicola McGeady of Boylesports said yesterday: "Continued support for Camelot has now forced his price into 4/7 from 8/13 following two large cash bets in Dublin.

"Punters continue to make use of the non-runner cash-back offer also.

"Camelot's price could also shorten further should the stable land both the Coronation Cup and the Oaks on Friday."

McGeady concluded: "The nightmare scenario for us could lead to huge amounts running on to Camelot to complete the Group One treble."

O'Brien, of course, has leading chance Maybe and Kissed in the running for Friday's Oaks and St Nicholas Abbey for Saturday's Coronation Cup.

The Coolmore operation are going in search of two victories in as many years following the dramatic win of Pour Moi last season, while O'Brien is after his third Epsom Derby triumph.

A Camelot win would keep dreams of a Triple Crown bid alive, something that hasn't been achieved since the legendary Nijinsky in 1970. However, Ladbrokes, who were initially the shortest price about Camelot following Monday's final forfeit stage, yesterday reported some each-way opposition to the favourite.

"Punters looking for an alternative to the Derby favourite seem to have turned their attention to the John Gosden-trained Thought Worthy," said Hayley O'Connor of Ladbrokes.

liveliest

"He is the liveliest horse in the Classic betting today and has been cut to 14/1."

A decision on whether or not watering would commence at Epsom was due this afternoon, as officials waited to see if some forecasted rain materialised.

The going on the round course is good, good to firm in places and on the straight course it was good to firm, good in places.

Derby legends Michael Kinane and Lester Piggott are the latest figures to voice opinions of strong and unrivalled support for Camelot ahead of Saturday's showpiece.