King ready to reign over 2025 Queensland Derby rivals
King Of Thunder is set to line up for his third Derby start this season in the Queensland Derby, and trainer Tom Charlton is optimistic that a return to firmer footing will bring out the best in his colt.
Following a third-place finish behind Imperialist in the Rough Habit Plate, Charlton suggested the wet conditions took the sting out of King Of Thunder’s usual finishing burst.
“It looked like he was coming to make his challenge and just worked away to the line,” Charlton said.
“He shows a few more gears than that normally. The comment from the rider was he just got slightly dulled in the conditions.”
“We were delighted with him the other day. He didn’t love that ground and he’s probably looking for a bit more of a test, which he will get next Saturday.”
King Of Thunder has proven his staying ability with strong efforts in both the Victoria Derby and Australian Derby, and he remains a popular elect at $6 in current betting markets.
Stablemate Hurstville Zagreb, after running third to Let’s Fly at Randwick, has drifted in Derby betting to $15, while Let’s Fly could be supplemented into the Queensland Oaks depending on her recovery.
For punters following the Derby and Oaks features, exploring promotions across trusted betting sites could unlock extra value ahead of Eagle Farm’s marquee events.
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