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Page last updated at 12:46 GMT, Tuesday, 8 June 2010 13:46 UK

Sir Michael Stoute reserved on Workforce win

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Replay - Workforce wins 2010 Derby

Trainer Sir Michael Stoute has praised his colt Workforce after winning the 2010 Epsom Derby, but stopped short of comparing him to 1981 winner Shergar.

Similarities have been drawn between the horses, with Shergar claiming Stoute's first Derby victory.

He told BBC Look East: "That comparison is premature, let's wait to see how he gets on in his next race or two.

"He's a big, sort of rangey horse, who's certainly not fully developed by a long way."

Shergar romped to victory by 10 lengths at the feature race at Epsom 29 years ago, a winning margin that is still a record in the race.

Workforce was unable to outdo his Newmarket-based trainer's previous winner, galloping over the line seven lengths ahead of the field.

"We were hopeful but I wasn't expecting such a scintillating run," added Stoute.

"He's got a lot of talent, it's no fluke to run the Epsom mile-and-a-half in two minutes 31 seconds.

"He's full of potential and it was only his third racecourse start."

All eyes will be on the Prince Khalid Abdulla-owned colt to make sure the Derby victory was not a flash in the pan, and the Irish Derby on 27 June could be his next appearance.

Stoute said: "The Irish Derby would obviously be considered, but I would say we need about 10 days to make a decision and see how he has recovered from Saturday's exertions.

"We won't make a plan until the middle of next week at the earliest."

Stoute has now taken his tally of Derby wins to five, having also found success with Shahrastani (1986), Kris Kin (2003) and North Light (2004).



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see also
Workforce shows shades of Shergar
05 Jun 10 |  Horse Racing
Workforce powers to Derby victory
05 Jun 10 |  Horse Racing
Stoute aces set for King George
22 Jul 09 |  Horse Racing
BBC racing coverage
09 Apr 11 |  Horse Racing


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