MIKE de Kock believes that Gone Baby Gone (photo) is the best ofhis three runners in Saturday’s R2-million SA Derby over 2450m, writes JACK MILNER.

“Louis The King is the runner we all have to beat but I make Gone Baby Gone the best of my three. I’m not sure he will get the trip but not too many horses have been able to win against older horses at handicap level over 2000m. I’ve always had a high opinion of him but since he’s been gelded and come back from a rest, he has been really well,” said De Kock. I have always believed he is a Black-Type horse and he has had a very good prep.”

Julius Mariba takes the ride.

Ilitshe, who will be ridden by Anton Marcus, has won his last three races, the last being the Listed Derby Trial over 2000m. “He should stay but I don’t know how good he is. He’s is a difficult horse and he doesn’t show much. I just not sure if he has the depth of quality to win in this company.

“Having said that, he ran well to win the Derby Trial and if the pace is too slow Ilitshe is the type of horse who can go out and lead.”

Taarish has been well beaten by Louis The King in all of his last three starts but De Kock is confident the Australian import will have no problem with the distance. “He stays all day. The further he goes the better. He has ability but he’s a difficult horse. I don’t think he is mentally ready to win a race of this nature.

“He is also well held on previous form.”