Hollywood producer and director George Waud has likened his Betfred Derby contender Maltese Cross to actor Samuel L. Jackson, citing the colt's professionalism and ability to deliver when it counts. Waud, who worked with Jackson on the 2006 film 'Snakes on a Plane', described the actor as a 'one-take wonder' and sees the same traits in his three-year-old.
Maltese Cross, trained by William Haggas and ridden by Tom Marquand, has won three of his four starts, including the Lingfield Derby Trial last month. Waud noted that the horse has improved with each race and impressed Marquand in recent workouts.
The colt was drawn in stall one for Saturday's £2 million race at Epsom Downs. Waud commented: 'You can't control the draw - it's what you do with the draw that counts. So, over to Mr. Marquand, and Mr Haggas.' He added that while rain and the draw were not ideal, it is a thrill to have a horse good enough to compete in the Derby.
When asked if a victory could inspire a Hollywood film, Waud said it was unlikely but noted he had seen a script for a Red Rum movie, which he thought was a great idea.
