Wirko, Law of The Sea Carry Godolphin Banner at Chester
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Photo: Edward Whitaker/Racing Post
Wirko (blue cap) wins the Blue Riband Trial at Epsom
Wirko and Law of The Sea bid to give Godolphin a remarkable first ever victory in this usually informative Investec Derby (G1) warm-up, the May 5 Chester Vase Stakes (G3), which now has an open look to it after the defection of fancied Aidan O'Brien pair Sir Lamorlak and San Martino on Tuesday morning.
If successful, Wirko would also break new ground as the first winner of the listed Blue Riband Trial at Epsom to follow up on the Roodee, although not that many have tried.
A son of Kingman , Wirko has come from nowhere to take a prominent place in Charlie Appleby's Derby team which also includes Adayar , One Ruler , and Hurricane Lane. As he's from German stock and related to the classy staying mare Wild Coco, Wirko should enjoy any ease in the ground at Chester and the step up in trip.
Appleby, who won the Epsom classic with Masar in 2018, said: "We were delighted with Wirko in the Blue Riband Trial and he looks to have come forward mentally and physically for that run. Racing over a mile and a half should see further improvement on what is hopefully another stepping-stone towards the Derby."
Although he has a bit to find on official figures, Law of The Sea should not be discounted after his runaway win under a penalty in a 12-furlong novice at Leicester last time for John and Thady Gosden.
Although that was on contrasting good to firm ground, Law of The Sea is from stout stock and may well be doing all his best work at the finish.