Racing: English Derby favourite Authorized strengthened his Epsom credentials with a terrific performance in the Dante Stakes at York.
Peter Chapple-Hyam's charge took a keen enough hold under Frankie Dettori in the early stages as the field were taken along by Adagio.
But as the six runners fanned out in the straight, Dettori unleashed the 10-11 favourite with two furlongs to run and cruised home four lengths clear of Raincoat.
Craven Stakes winner Adagio made his bid for home with half a mile to run in the hands of Kerrin McEvoy but Dettori always had him in his sights.
The Italian rider moved up ominously to take closer order and the response was immediate when he asked the Montjeu colt to go about his business.
After adding the prestigious Derby trial to his victory in the Racing Post Trophy at Newbury last October, bookmakers him to 2-1 from 7-2 for the blue riband on June 2nd.
"He took me into the race with a double handful and I was forced
to bide my time a bit," Dettori said.
"But when I asked him to quicken the response was immediate
and I pushed him right out to the line to make it a race for him. I
couldn't be more pleased."
Asked whether Authorized would handle the extra distance and undulations in the Derby, he added: "We'll find out, but he's definitely got the class to cope with all that so it's fingers crossed now.
"If Godolphin have a runner then I will ride for Godolphin because that is my stable, but there is a long time till the Derby and anything can happen."
Chapple-Hyam added: "I'm relieved and very happy. I'm so proud of him. He will improve all of mine do."
