Belmont Derby runner eyeing the Cox Plate 2025
UK trainer Charlie Fellowes is considering a Cox Plate tilt with his talented three-year-old Luther, who lines up in the Belmont Derby Invitational Stakes this weekend in New York.
After showing promise as a two-year-old with a Listed win and a fifth in the Royal Lodge Stakes, Luther has continued to impress as a sophomore.
He opened his campaign with a second at Chelmsford and followed that with a fourth in the Poule d’Essai des Poulains in Paris.
Although finishing down the field in the Prix du Jockey Club, his trainer remains unfazed and upbeat about his U.S. assignment.
“He’s really good and has taken the journey over there like a champ,” Fellowes said.
“He had a little blow yesterday morning on the dirt, he looks fantastic, he’s eaten everything that we’ve thrown at him and all the usual boxes that you want to tick when you go away have been ticked.
“I’ve always thought America would suit him at some stage in his career. At the end of the day, I’m trying to find the best opportunity for my horse to win the biggest race he can possibly win and there’s no bigger race than a Grade 1.”
Beyond Saturday’s test, Luther could appear in the Saratoga Derby, a qualifier for the Cox Plate, a race that’s already been won by international raider State Of Rest.
“Long term, the Saratoga Derby is a win-and-you’re-in for the Cox Plate,” Fellowes told Sky Sports.
“Although that’s a very, very long way away, the owner, Mr Hickman who owns 75% of him, lives in Singapore and I know would love for him to head down to Australia.”
Fellowes’ past success with Prince Of Arran during Melbourne Cup week strengthens the case for another international raid.
Explore odds and tips for Luther’s run and future Cox Plate hopes at justhorseracing.com.au.
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