Epsom Derby: The richest race of Great Britain
The Middle Leg of Triple Crown, The Derby Stakes, The Epsom Derby, The Investec Derby, The Blue Riband of Turf; whatever we call, this is the richest and the most prestigious Group 1 horserace of Great Britain.
The high-profile contest takes place at Epsom racecourse in June each year. It is open to three-year-old colts and fillies who test their nerves over 1 mile, 4 furlongs and 10 yards.
Since 1780, this meeting has been a regular part of every sport season. When the English horseracing administrators were celebrating the maiden season of the Oaks Stakes in 1979, they planned a grand race with a view to garner heavy sponsors. Thus, The Derby
came into existence.
The inaugural Derby was won by Diomed, owned by Sir Charles Bunbury. The race’s market value is evident from the fact that its first prize cheque was worth £1,065 15s.
Since then, many top-class horses have accomplished this grand title. The one who wins it is considered to be the luckiest.
The 2012 Epsom Derby edition was rocked by the star colt, Camelot, who was attempting for breaking the 42-year Triple Crown record of Nijinsky.
The A. P. O’Brien trained bay colt ran under J. P. O’Brien against eight mighty rivals on June 2. Considering his unbeaten record of three consecutive victories, the bettors picked him as the 8-13 hot favourite candidate for the ace race.
Camelot performed exceptionally well and beat Main Sequence by the huge margin of 5 lengths to win the race. It was a matter of great pride, both for the colt and his trainer. The total prize money for the race was
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pound_sterling1,325,000.
But unfortunately, Camelot could not be able to finish Triple Crown triumph as he narrowly lost the St Leger Stakes of September 15.
The Derby 2011 was won by Pour Moi while Workforce grabbed this title in 2010.
Since 2009, Investec Bank has been the official sponsor of the race. This deal will go till 2022.
Thus, The Derby is a jewel in the British horseracing necklace. It has millions of fans across the globe. Every trainer and owner yearns to earn this honour, but only a few daredevils manage to do.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are the writer's own and do not reflect Bettor.Com’s editorial policy.
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