The overseas challenge for Saturday's Kentucky Derby experienced differing fortunes at the draw for the big race on Wednesday.
Godolphin's Essence of Dubai claimed an almost perfect position, but Aidan O'Brien's two runners Johannesburg and Castle Gandolfo met with less favourable positions at one and twelve, respectively.
Connections of Breeders Cup juvenile winner Johannesburg were quick to play down the huge disadvantage of starting from the rail with jockey Gary Stevens, saying: "I'm still very excited and in a certain way going for the rail was in fact part of our strategy which I won't let loose right now. To most people it's not good but if it's meant to be, it's meant to be".
Coolmore representative Demi O'Byrne said: "I'm very enthusiastic. Obviously it's a huge question to ask of Johannesburg but both horses are up to the challenge and Castle Gandolfo is pretty near the middle which isn't too bad.
"Jerry Bailey is very happy with that draw and I've spoken to Aidan and he is also very happy".
Godolphin's Essence of Dubai enjoyed the luxury of being third in the selection order of the 20 starters and it was no surprise to see John Ferguson and Tom Albertrani opt for the eight berth after connections of Buddha and Medaglia d'Oro went for stalls ten and nine.
PA