Ruling Court William Buick Charlie Appleby Godolphin
BETFRED 1,000 GUINEAS
Desert Flower
William Buick Charlie Appleby Godolphin
BETFRED OAKS
Epsom Downs 1 Mile 4 Furlongs Friday 6th June
BETFRED
DERBY
Epsom Downs 1 Mile 4 Furlongs Saturday 7th June
BETFRED ST LEGER
Doncaster 1 Mile 6 Furlongs Saturday 13th September
SPONSOR’S WELCOME
On behalf of everyone at Betfred a very warm welcome to Epsom Downs for the Betfred Derby Festival.
As a bookmaker The Derby has always been one of my favourite days of the year and being headline sponsor makes it even more special.
This will be the third year I have sponsored the world’s greatest race and the last two have without doubt been two of the best working days I have ever had There is still a very special atmosphere around Epsom Downs for the Derby Festival and when the stalls open for the Oaks and the Derby, even after all these years, it still gives me a real buzz.Whilst I may be a bookmaker, I am also racing fan and we are very fortunate to have, in my opinion, the best racing in the world.
This year Betfred have become the first company to sponsor all five British Classics and to celebrate that fact I have offered a bonus of £2 million for any horse that can emulate the great Nijinsky, who was the last horse to complete the ‘Triple Crown’ 50 years ago, in winning the Guineas, Derby and St Leger treble.
I thoroughly enjoyed our first Betfred Guineas Festival at Newmarket recently and following a most impressive display in the Betfred 2000 Guineas I think we have a real live contender for the Triple Crown bonus in Ruling Court and I wish William and Charlie and all connections of the horse the very best of luck as I would love to see him heading to Doncaster in September with the bonus still very much a possibility.
I am also delighted that we are able to remember His Highness Aga Khan IV who sadly passed away in February this year. Shergar’s 10 length Derby victory in 1981 was a breakthrough year for His Highness, to be followed by wins for Shahrastani (1986), Kahyasi (1988), Sinndar (2000) and Harzand (2016) (not forgetting last year’s Betfred Oaks with Ezeliya) so it means a great deal that today’s Betfred Derby is to be run in his honour, a great man indeed
Another person who deserves a special mention today is Clerk of the Course Andrew Cooper who will be working his 30th Derby this afternoon. I first worked with Andrew many years ago when Betfred took over sponsorship of The Gold Cup at Sandown Park and, as a sponsor,Andrew has always been a pleasure to work with and a big help to the Betfred team, enjoy your afternoon Andrew
Thanks also to all of the management and staff here at Epsom Downs Racecourse,Jockey Club Racecourses, ITV Racing and Racing TV, the Press, all the jockeys, trainers and everyone who contributes to the great sport of horseracing.
My final thank you is to you the racegoer who join us here today for Betfred Derby Day creating such a brilliant atmosphere at one of the great institutions of the sporting calendar
Enjoy the Derby, enjoy the racing, enjoy Epsom Downs and be lucky.
Fred
THE JOCKEY CLUB WELCOMES YOU
Welcome to Epsom Downs Racecourse
Welcome to Epsom Downs Racecourse for the second day of the Betfred Derby Festival, one of British sport’s most iconic and magical occasions.
For me the Betfred Derby (In Honour Of His Highness Aga Khan IV), which takes place at 3.30pm this afternoon, is the greatest Flat race in the world. The jewel in the crown of British Flat racing and the most valuable race on our calendar, it is the ultimate test for the finest three-year-old colts. The challenging course and rich history – it was first run in 1780 – help make the race the unique spectacle it is today and a defining moment in the careers of jockeys and future champion sires.
While this is my first year as General Manager, I have been attending Derby Day since 1986 and I am privileged and honoured to be leading the team in delivering such an internationally recognised and adored event.
We are sincerely grateful to our title partner Betfred for their continued and generous support in the build-up to and throughout this festival. Their commitment plays a central role in delivering these two days and their passion for racing is hugely appreciated.
This year marks a major milestone as Betfred sponsors all five British Classics for the first time. They have also introduced a bonus of £2million for any horse that can win the Betfred Triple Crown, which includes the 2000 Betfred Guineas, the Betfred Derby and the Betfred St Leger Last achieved by the great Nijinsky in 1970, this year’s 2000 Guineas winner Ruling Court can take a step closer to creating history by triumphing in the second leg today.
We would also like to thank the Hong Kong Jockey Club, oddschecker,Aston Martin, Encore Lifestyle and the Japanese Racing Authority for their support across today’s card and to our associate partner, Debenhams, for their activation on site.
Derby Day carries many traditions, none more meaningful than the annual tribute to Lester Piggott, a true icon of the sport and forever part of the fabric of Epsom Downs. With nine Derby victories from 36 rides, his record remains unmatched and his legacy continues to inspire generations. As part of today’s commemorations, we invite you to join us in honouring one of the greatest figures in sporting history when a wreath will be laid at his statue by Fred Done at 12.10pm.
We are also delighted to be joined by Laine Theatre School today, who will perform the National Anthem ahead of The Betfred Derby. Laine is a world-class performing arts college based in Epsom and two soloists will be joined by a 60-strong choir at the finishing line while the horses go to post.
Off the track there is a wide range of entertainment and food options for you to choose from, including Cedric’s which returns for a second year and is sponsored by Nyetimber, positioning you right by the most famous winning line in racing. We also welcome Ultimate Provence in the Blossom Garden and the carnival atmosphere continues once the racing has concluded, with Gavin and Stacey star Mat Horne keeping the party going on the Rekorderlig bar.
The whole team here at Epsom Downs and from across The Jockey Club have worked tirelessly to deliver a fantastic day for everyone attending today and we all wish the runners and connections the very best of luck across the card.
Jim Allen General Manager, Epsom Downs Racecourse
The Jockey Club would like to thank our Group Partners for their support in 2025
HOW TO READ YOUR RACECARD
Your quick at-a-glance guide on
Sire
Horse’s number on saddlecloth
4
No of days since last race
Horse’s Name
CITY OF TROY (USA) (28)
B c Justify (USA) - Together Forever (IRE) (Galileo (IRE))
Owner M Tabor/D Smith/Mrs J Magnier/Westerberg
Trainer Aidan O’Brien, Ireland
Breeder Orpendale, Chelston, Wynatt
Groom David Hickey
DARK BLUE
Owner(s) colours and graphic
Colour and sex of horse
B = Bay
Br = Brown
Ch = Chesnut
Gr = Grey
Ro = Roan
c = colt
h = horse
g = gelding f = filly
m = mare
OFFICIAL BHA RATINGS
Previous Performances / = denotes new season - = denotes new year Bold type indicates AWT Form Dam Dam Sire
3 9-2 (1)
He has won three times at 7f on ground varying from good to soft. Beaten 17l behind Notable Speech at 4-6fav when 9th of 11 on his latest outing in the Group 1 QIPCO 2000 Guineas at Newmarket over 1m (good) last month. STEWARDS NOTE: Following its run on 4/5/2024 it was reported that the horse became tired on his first run. Official BHA Rating 124
Jockey’s Name. If there is a number next to the name, this indicates that the jockey can claim that amount in weight (lbs) off the stated riding weight
The BHA Handicappers allot ratings to horses once they have taken part in a sufficient number of races to enable the Handicappers to make a numerical assessment of each horse’s ability.
The principal purpose of the ratings is to determine the weight to be carried by each runner in handicap races, with the Handicappers aiming to provide each participant with an equal chance based on its best recent form under its optimum conditions. A horse rated 100, for example,
would be set to carry 1lb more than a horse rated 99 (ignoring any penalties or allowances).
The ratings published in the racecard for handicap races are the ratings that were used to calculate the weight to be carried by each horse, whilst in non-handicaps races the rating shown is that of each runner at the time that the entries for the race were confirmed. Any subsequently published change to a rating, either up or down, is shown in brackets following the rating.
Ryan Moore
BETFRED'S TOP TIPS
RACE ONE
A wide open renewal of this race can go to SIRONA. The rain that has fallen enhances her claims while she may have needed her return when a good fourth at Goodwood. Ryan Moore is back aboard having won on her at Newmarket last season and she ticks plenty of boxes.
RACE TWO
PERSICA won a handicap at this meeting last year and progressed through the ranks to contest Group 1 races at the end of the season. Despite having a penalty for a win at Newmarket in April, he handles soft ground, has course winning form and Ryan Moore, who rode him to victory at Newmarket, is back in the saddle.
RACE THREE
Ruby’s Profit and Against The Wind set the standard on recent form but NAANA’S SPARKLE has been beaten by that pair the last twice and is much better off at the weights. His full sister handled soft ground which bodes well and drawn 11 he can get a great tow into the race.
RACE FOUR
RHYTHM N HOOVES is taken as the each way play here. He has form on easy going, won at Royal Ascot as a 3yo and has been running consistently well this season. Vintage Clarets is also on the shortlist as he is well handicapped and talented and has the services of young apprentice Warren Fentiman who takes a handy 5lb off, but stall 2 wouldn’t be ideal.
RACE SIX
RACE FIVE
Damysus and Nightwalker were behind Pride Of Arras at York but did have a sighter of Epsom at the gallops morning last week and both went well for John & Thady Gosden and could be players at double figure prices. However, it is hard to overlook Classic form, and this year;s Betfred 2000 Guineas is already working out well. In winning at Newmarket RULING COURT has put himself in line for a £2million bonus ifwinning the Betfred Derbyand the Betfred St Leger in September
The very lightly raced VALVANO looks the one to be on here. He was a well backed favourite at Doncaster in November but was keen early, did well to finish fifth and ran like he needed his seasonal return at Goodwood. He loves cut in the ground and looks likely to improve further after just six runs. Connections reach for the cheekpieces, aiming to help him reach that potential.
RACE SEVEN
Andrew Balding has won three of the last seven renewals of this race, all for the same owners, The Mariscotti’s, so particular attention has to be paid to CHARTWELL JOCK here. He has only had five starts, acquitted himself well in two handicaps so far but the switch to a softer surface could see him improve as he is related to plenty of soft ground winners.
RACE EIGHT
Badri is much lower in the weights than winning the 2023 edition of this race and wasn’t beaten too far last year either, although a draw in stall 1 may not be ideal for a horse who likes to come late. ROUSING ENCORE finally took advantage of a sliding mark at York and despite needing more off 5lb higher, his confidence will be restored, and he showed a very good turn of foot on the Knavesmire.
10 JULY | 17 JULY | 31 JULY | 15 AUGUST
A nation’s hopes ride strong and proud This late spring afternoon.
The plans, the trials, the joy, the tears Have happened all before; The race has run for two four six years And shall for many more.
Whether in the Queen’s Stand high, Or out across the Downs, Or strolling through the fairground, The magic still resounds.
It’s speed and heart, it’s fine and flight, A test of nerve and graceWhere history gallops into view, And heroes find their place
The silks shine bright, the crowd holds breath, The tension fills the air –You place your bet…they’re moving in… The Derby’s nearly there.
MICHAEL CHURCH Official Derby Historian
succession at the helm of the world’s greatest Flat race for Andrew Cooper in his position as Clerk of the Course at Epsom Downs.
Andrew joined the team at Epsom Downs in 1989 as a trainee Clerk of the Course for the then United Racecourses, which saw him also undertake duties at Sandown Park (where he is now also Clerk of the Course) and Kempton Park. In 1996, he succeeded Major Michael Webster as Clerk of the Course at Epsom Downs. This was the second year following the Derby’s permanent move to Saturday and saw Shaamit land the honours, trained by Lester Piggott’s son-in-law William Haggas.
During Andrew’s tenure as Clerk of the Course, there have been some truly memorable renewals of both the Derby and the Oaks, although he is always keen to stress the uniqueness of each individual race.
He said: “What I really love about the Betfred Derby is that no two renewals have ever been the same. Each race is truly unique and has its own background story.
“While I don’t particularly like to pick out individual winners, it really was a pivotal renewal of the Derby when Galileo won back in 2001. He was the first of Aidan O’Brien’s record 10 Derby winners and a first for his phenomenal sire Sadler’s Wells. Of course, Galileo himself would go on to become one of the most outstanding sires of all-time with a record five Derby winners to his name. The success of Galileo’s half-brother Sea The Stars was also very special in 2009, particularly in light of what he went on to achieve, and it good have Fr nch winner in Pour Moi
y ing my Course, we have seen this five times with Galileo and also with New Approach (the 2008 winner who sired the 2018 winner Masar) and Sea The Stars (who sired the 2016 winner Harzand). It was especially memorable in 2014 when Galileo sired the winner Australia who was out of Ouija Board, the outstanding Oaks winner of 2004.”
Of course, being in charge of preparing the racing surface for such an iconic race is not without its challenges. This was true more than ever during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 when the Derby and Oaks were run on the same day in early July – a month later than usual.
Andrew reflected: “We had only recently come out of the first COVID-19 lockdown when we staged the 2020 Derby but were still without a crowd at Epsom Downs, which made for a very surreal experience.
“It was a tough task logistically to get the race on at all given the public right of access to the Downs but I am immensely proud that we managed it and enabled both the Derby and the Oaks to be run at their rightful home – Epsom Downs.”
Betfred boss Fred Done , Chairman of sponsor Betfred, will lay a wreath at the statue of Lester Piggott today at 12:10pm.
Piggott, who died aged 86 on May 29, 2022, rode in The Derby an unmatched 36 times between 1951 and 1994, winning on a record nine occasions aboard Never Say Die (1954), Crepello (1957), St Paddy (1960), Sir Ivor (1968), Nijinsky (1970), Roberto (1972), Empery (1976), The Minstrel (1977) and Teenoso (1983).
Nicknamed ‘The Long Fellow’, Lester also partnered six Oaks winners and recorded an unsurpassed nine victories in the Coronation Cup.
LESTERPIGGOTT
Derby winners (9, record): Never Say Die (1954), Crepello (1957), St. Paddy (1960), Sir Ivor (1968), Nijinsky (1970), Roberto (1972), Empery (1976), The Minstrel (1977), Teenoso (1983).
Oaks winners (6): Carrozza (1957), Petite Etoile (1959), Valoris (1966), Juliette Marny (1975), Blue Wind (1981), Circus Plume (1984)
Coronation Cup winners (9, record): Zucchero (1953), Nagami (1959), Petite Etoile (1960 & 1961), Park Top (1969), Roberto (1973), Quiet Fling (1976), Sea Chimes (1980), Be My Native (1983)
The wreath-laying ceremony first took place in 2022 when Ryan Moore performed the honour. Frankie Dettori was at the helm in 2023 while last year the wreath was laid by Lester’s daughter Maureen Haggas.
In every year going forward, a floral wreath in the colours of Piggott’s 1970 Derby winner Nijinsky, the last horse to win the English Triple Crown (2000 Guineas, Derby and St Leger), will be laid at the Lester Piggott statue on the Queen Elizabeth II Stand lawn.
Additionally, today’s Hong Kong Jockey Club World Pool Lester Piggott Handicap is staged in commemoration of the great man.
BETFRED DERBY ANNIVERSARIES IN 2025
10 YEARS AGO – Supplementary entry Golden Horn hands Frankie Dettori his second Derby success with an impressive three and a half length victory over stablemate Jack Hobbs. It was also a second Derby victory for trainer John Gosden. Golden Horn went on to win three more Group One contests – the Coral-Eclipse, Irish Champion Stakes and Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. He ended the year as the highest-rated horse in Europe and the second-highest worldwide after US Triple Crown winner American Pharoah.
20 YEARS AGO – The Michael Bell-trained Motivator becomes the first Derby winner to be owned by a syndicate – the 230-strong Royal Ascot Racing Club. It is a third and final win in the Classic for jockey Johnny Murtagh.
30 YEARS AGO – Lammtarra becomes the first horse to win The Derby on his seasonal return since Grand Parade in 1919 and set a record time of 2m 32.31s, beating Mahmoud’s 2m 33.8s which was hand-timed in 1936. This year saw the Derby switched permanently from Wednesday to Saturday.
40 YEARS AGO – Slip Anchor makes virtually all the running for an easy seven-length victory under Steve Cauthen to hand trainer Henry Cecil the first of his four Derby wins.
50 YEARS AGO – Pat Eddery rides the first of his three Derby winners aboard Grundy. Runner Nobiliar ins the t t
60 YEARS AGO –Sea-Bird, often considered the greatest Derby winner of all-time, beat Meadow Court and I Say in a canter for owner-breeder Jean Ternynck, trainer Etienne Pollet and jockey Pat Glennon. This was the year Epsom Downs Racecourse installed a watering system.
70 YEARS AGO – Suzy Volterra owned and bred the French-trained winner Phil Drake, who hurtles past 12 rivals in the last two furlongs to win decisively by a length and a half.
80 YEARS AGO – The final Derby of World War II is staged at Newmarket and won by Dante. The Dante Stakes, which is run at York and is a leading Derby trial, is run in his honour.
90 YEARS AGO – The Aga Khan’s Bahram follows up on his 2000 Guineas victory by winning the Derby. He would go on to win the St Leger and is the second most recent Triple Crown winner after Nijinsky (1970).
100 YEARS AGO – Manna wins by eight lengths, the widest Derby margin seen until Shergar scored by 10 lengths in 1981.
200 YEARS AGO – The unraced Middleton wins The Derby. Despite his lack of form, he starts at 7-4. He would never run again.
The Princess Elizabeth Stakes (SponsoredByoddschecker)(Group3)(Class1)
ONE MILE about 113 YARDS (8f abt 113yds) for three yrs old and upwards fillies and mares
Total prize fund £100000
For conditions of this race see page 80
EPSOM RACE SUMMARY
Traffic problems cost ROYAL DRESS dearly but she still managed a creditable third in this race 12 months ago. The daughter of Night Of Thunder went on to gain compensation for that luckless run with a Group 3 success at the Curragh the following month and has only been seen twice since. Having returned with another respectable third behind an impressive winner in the Middleton at York, James Tate's mare reverts to her optimum distance with a big chance of making her course experience count. Sirona has placed form at this level and poses a serious threat to the selection, while Bright Thunder and Skellet also have the calibre to be on the premises.
WIN: ROYAL DRESS
EACH-WAY: Sirona
PRESENTATION
Oddschecker is kindly awarding £150 to the racing groom responsible for the best turned out horse in this race, as well as a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey.
RACE FACTS
LEADING COURSE TRAINER (20-25):
A Balding (18 wins from 105 runners, 17%) runs BERMUDA LONGTAIL
TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS):
J & T Gosden (10 wins from 36 runners, 28%) runs SPIRITUAL
LONGEST TRAVELLER:
NUMBER OF DECLARED RUNNERS 11
Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn first time by No. 2. Hood worn by No. 3, 5. Visor worn by No. 4. Tongue Strap worn by No. 1, 2.
Trainer K. R. Burke, Leyburn Breeder Ennistown Stud
Form 4106-53
4 9-8 (4)
YELLOW, DARK BLUE seams, YELLOW cap. Successful twice at 1m on good and soft ground. Third of 9 behind Crimson Advocate beaten 1/2l at 7-2 on her latest outing at Goodwood over 1m (good) last month. STEWARDS NOTE: Following its run on 3/5/2025 it was reported that the horse stumbled when leaving the stalls. Official BHA Rating 103
2 CHIC COLOMBINE (FR) (35)
B f Seahenge (USA) - Little Hippo (Halling (USA))
Owner Highclere T’bred Racing - Vermeer 1
Trainer George Boughey, Newmarket Breeder Mell Elevages/Ecurie Artsam/V. Le Roy
Form 0200-00
4 9-8 (3)
Sponsored by Highclere Thoroughbred Racing Ltd
LIGHT BLUE, DARK BLUE armlets, DARK BLUE cap. Winner of five races from 6f to 1m on ground varying from good to heavy and on the all-weather. Beaten 9l behind Crimson Advocate at 18-1 when last of 9 on her latest outing at Goodwood over 1m (good) last month. She is wearing cheekpieces for the first time. Official BHA Rating 97
3 IMPERIAL QUARTER (IRE) (239)
B m Dubawi (IRE) - Ambivalent (IRE) (Authorized (IRE))
Owner Mr Ali Saeed
Trainer Roger Varian, Newmarket Breeder Rabbah Bloodstock Limited
5 9-8 (6)
Form 4/04306- D
GREY, MAROON triple diamond, WHITE sleeves, GREY cap, MAROON diamonds. A winner at 1m 1f on good to firm ground. Finished 5l behind Lady Boba when sixth of 15 at 28-1 on her latest outing in the Group 3 Newmarket Pony Academy Pride Stakes at Newmarket over 1m 2f (good to soft) in October last year. Official BHA Rating 104
4 KINDEST NATION (IRE) (14)
Br f Sioux Nation (USA) - The Dylan Show (IRE) (Showcasing)
Owner John Brown & The Owens
Trainer Hugo Palmer, Malpas
Breeder Sherborough Developments Co Ltd
4 9-8 (9)
Form 1146-30 Sponsored by Coral Racing Limited
DARK BLUE, YELLOW triple diamond, halved sleeves, YELLOW cap.
She has won three times at 7f on good to soft and heavy ground and on the all-weather. Beaten 14l behind Great Chieftain at 25-1 when 10th of 11 on her latest outing at Haydock over 1m (good) last month. Official BHA Rating 88
5 ROYAL DRESS (IRE) (23)
B m Night of Thunder (IRE) - Wadaa (USA) (Dynaformer (USA))
5 9-8 (2)
Owner Mr Saeed Manana
Trainer James Tate, Newmarket
Breeder Rabbah Bloodstock Limited
Form 13013-3 D WHITE, RED sash, RED and WHITE striped cap.
She has won four times from 6f to 1m 1f on ground varying from good to heavy. Third of 8 behind See The Fire beaten 12l at 14-1 on her latest outing in the Group 2 Middleton Fillies’ Stakes at York over 1m 2f (good to firm) last month. Official BHA Rating 107
6 SIRONA (GER) (35)
B m Soldier Hollow - Si Luna (GER) (Kallisto (GER))
Owner Dash Grange Stud
Trainer David Menuisier, Pulborough
Breeder Gestut Hof Iserneichen
Form 56212-4 BEIGE, DARK BLUE chevron.
5 9-8 (7)
She has won four times from 7f to 1m on ground varying from good to heavy. Finished 1l behind Crimson Advocate when fourth of 9 at 11-2 on her latest outing at Goodwood over 1m (good) last month. Official BHA Rating 105
Clifford Lee
Billy Loughnane
Ray Dawson
Harry Davies
William Buick
Ryan Moore
7 SKELLET (IRE) (262)
B f Kingman - Dane Street (USA) (Street Cry (IRE))
Owner Juddmonte
Trainer Ralph Beckett, Kimpton Down
Breeder Airlie Stud & Mrs S. Rogers
GREEN, PINK sash and cap, WHITE sleeves.
4 9-8 (5)
Form 12/0021Sponsored by Juddmonte Farms Inc
Successful at 7f and 1m on good to firm and good ground. A winner at 10-3 at Sandown over 1m (good) on her latest outing in September last year, beating Checkandchallenge by a neck. Official BHA Rating 104
8 SPARKS FLY (GB) (70)
B m Muhaarar - Stepping Out (IRE) (Tagula (IRE))
Owner David Lowe
Trainer David Loughnane, Tern Hill
Breeder The Lowe Family
EMERALD GREEN, BLACK armlets, BLACK cap.
Form 50111-0
5 9-8 (8)
Sponsored by Galloways Bakers Ltd, Dave Loughnane Racing
Has won 11 races from 1m to 1m 2f on ground varying from good to soft to heavy. Beaten 9l behind Alcantor at 6-1 when eighth of 9 on her latest outing in the Group 3 Edmond Blanc Stakes at Saint-Cloud over 1m (soft) in March. Official BHA Rating 110
9 SPIRITUAL (IRE) (28)
B f Invincible Spirit (IRE) - Wild Irish Rose (IRE) (Galileo (IRE))
4 9-8 (10)
Owner Mr George Strawbridge
Trainer John & Thady Gosden, Newmarket
Breeder Ballylinch Stud
WHITE, EMERALD GREEN hoop.
Form 21643-3
Successful at 7f and 1m on good to soft and soft ground. Third of 6 behind Great Generation beaten 3/4l at 9-1 on her latest outing in the Group 3 William Hill Chartwell Fillies’ Stakes at Lingfield over 7f (good to firm) last month. Official BHA Rating 106
10
SUNFALL (GB)
(245) 4 9-8 (11)
Gr f Twilight Son - Volition (IRE) (Dark Angel (IRE))
Owner Cheveley Park Stud
Trainer David O’Meara, Upper Helmsley
Breeder Cheveley Park Stud Limited
RED, WHITE sash, ROYAL BLUE cap.
Form 133101Sponsored by Cheveley Park Stud Limited
She has won four times at 7f on ground varying from good to firm to soft and on the all-weather.
A winner at 18-1 at Ascot over 7f (soft) on her latest outing in October last year, beating Queen Of Mougins by a neck. Having her first run for a new stable today. Official BHA Rating 102
11 BERMUDA LONGTAIL (FR) (22)
3 8-10 (1)
B f Hello Youmzain (FR) - Et Toi Et Moi (FR) (Footstepsinthesand)
Owner Bermuda Racing Ltd
Trainer Andrew Balding, Kingsclere Breeder Riviera Equine S.A.R.L
Form 21-22
Sponsored by Bermuda Racing Ltd
DARK BLUE, PINK collar, Bermuda Racing triangle motif, striped sleeves, PINK cap
A winner at 7f on the all-weather. Beaten 1/2l by Kon Tiki when second of 9 at 16-1 on her latest outing at York over 1m (good to firm) last month. Official BHA Rating 99
1st 2nd Distance 3rd 4th Time
Rossa Ryan
Laura Pearson
Robert Havlin
Daniel Tudhope
Oisin Murphy
RACING POST STANDARD TIME
1m 113y - 1m 42.9s
RECORD TIMES
6f
£1 stake. 6 ball draw. All bets placed on Betfred Lotto products are fixed odds bets on the outcome of an official draw, not a lottery bet. Betfred rules apply.
S E C O N D RA CE 1 . 35
The Betfred Diomed Stakes (Group 3) (Class 1)
ONE MILE about 113 YARDS (8f abt 113yds) for three yrs old and upwards Total prize fund £100000
For conditions of this race see page 80
EPSOM RACE SUMMARY
PERSICA was highly tried in the Lockinge at Newbury and is much better judged on his success in the Earl Of Sefton at Newmarket on his previous start. Dropping this previous course winner back to Group 3 company looks a logical and potentially profitable move. Docklands is dependable and boasts enough solid form to suggest he can be a serious player if he handles the track, while Royal Playwright is surely better than he managed in the Dante at York and could feasibly bounce back. Geography's German form stacks up well and he needs taking seriously.
WIN: PERSICA
EACH-WAY: Docklands
PRESENTATION
Betfred is kindly awarding £250 to the racing groom responsible for the best turned out horse in this race, as well as a memento to the winning owner, trainer, jockey and groom.
RACE FACTS
LEADING COURSE TRAINER (20-25): A Balding (18 wins from 105 runners, 17%) runs ROYAL PLAYWRIGHT
TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): R Hannon (12 wins from 45 runners, 27%) runs PERSICA
STALLS: INSIDE
NUMBER OF DECLARED RUNNERS 9
Visor worn first time by No. 4. Blinkers worn by No. 1. TongueStrapwornbyNo.4,5.RunningforthefirsttimesinceGeldingNo.2. Probable S.P.’s - 15-8 Docklands (GB), 11-4 Persica (IRE), 9-1 Geography (GER), 11-1 Royal Dubai (FR), 12-1 Royal Playwright (GB), 16-1 Ice Max (GB), 22-1 Cairo (IRE), 33-1 Brave Emperor (IRE), 40-1 Tyrrhenian Sea (IRE)
LAST YEAR’S WINNER ROYAL SCOTSMAN (IRE)
RIDDEN BY: Jamie Spencer
OWNED BY: Mrs Fitri Hay
TRAINED BY: Paul & Oliver Cole | S/P 17-2 (8 ran)
1 BRAVE EMPEROR (IRE) (55)
5 9-11 (5)
B g Sioux Nation (USA) - Roman Gal (IRE) (Holy Roman Emperor (IRE))
Owner Middleham Park Racing LX
Trainer Archie Watson, Upper Lambourn
Breeder Caroline Hanly & Sean Ronan
LIGHT BLUE, ORANGE epaulets.
Form 0410-B5
Sponsored by Middleham Park Racing
Has won 11 races from 5f to 10m on ground varying from good to firm to heavy and on the all-weather. Finished 6l behind Geography when fifth of 7 at 5-1 on his latest outing in the Group 3 Kalkmann-Fruhjahrs-Meile at Dusseldorf over 1m (good to soft) in April. Official BHA Rating 107
2 GEOGRAPHY (GER) (55)
B g Holy Roman Emperor (IRE) - Guajara (GER) (Montjeu (IRE))
Owner Stall Hanse
Trainer P. Schiergen, Germany Breeder Fahrhof Stud Foundation
WHITE, RED sleeves and cap.
4 9-11 (6)
Form 01360-1
He has won four times from 7f to 1m on good to soft and soft ground. A winner at 4-1 in the Group 3 Kalkmann-Fruhjahrs-Meile at Dusseldorf over 1m (good to soft) on his latest outing in April, beating Best Lightning by a nose. Official BHA Rating 110
3 PERSICA (IRE) (21)
Ch c New Bay - Rubira (AUS) (Lope de Vega (IRE))
Owner Martin Hughes & Michael Kerr-Dineen
Trainer Richard Hannon, Marlborough Breeder The Applecross Syndicate
PURPLE and WHITE diamonds, PURPLE sleeves.
4 9-11 (7)
Form 310-310 C D Sponsored by Old Oak Holdings Ltd
Winner of six races from 6f to 1m 2f on ground varying from good to firm to soft and on the all-weather. Beaten 13l behind Lead Artist at 22-1 when last of 8 on his latest outing in the Group 1 BoyleSports Lockinge Stakes at Newbury over 1m (good to firm) last month. Official BHA Rating 112
4 CAIRO (IRE) (29)
B h Quality Road (USA) - Cuff (IRE) (Galileo (IRE))
Owner Mr REFAI ALGHRAIBAN
Trainer Alice Haynes, Newmarket Breeder Coolmore
Form 02-6262
5 9-8 (9)
Sponsored by Coral Racing Limited BLACK, WHITE diamond and sleeves.
He has won three times from 7f to 1m on good and yielding - soft ground and on the all-weather, but last win was over two years ago. Beaten 1 3/4l by The Foxes when second of 6 at 40-1 on his latest outing in the Group 2 IRE-Incentive, It Pays To Buy Irish Huxley Stakes at Chester over 1m 2f (good) last month. Official BHA Rating 111
5 DOCKLANDS (GB)
(38)
B h Massaat (IRE) - Icky Woo (Mark of Esteem (IRE))
Owner O.T.I. Racing
Trainer Harry Eustace, Newmarket
Breeder Mickley Stud
DARK BLUE, GOLD hoops, WHITE sleeves and cap.
5 9-8 (2)
Form 20560-2 BF
Sponsored by Rank Interactive (Gibraltar) Limited
He has won three times from 7f to 1m on good to firm and soft ground and on the all-weather, but last win was over two years ago. Beaten 1/2l by Sardinian Warrior when second of 11 at 15-8fav on his latest outing at Ascot over 1m (good to firm) in April. Official BHA Rating 114
6 ICE MAX (GB) (43)
Gr g Dark Angel (IRE) - Cool Kitten (IRE) (One Cool Cat (USA))
Owner Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum
Form 45140-0
4 9-8 (1)
Trainer K. R. Burke, Leyburn
Breeder Mr Gordon Roddick
YELLOW, large BLACK spots and spots on cap.
Winner of five races from 7f to 1m on ground varying from good to soft to heavy. Beaten 11l behind Dancing Gemini at 28-1 when seventh of 8 on his latest outing in the Group 2 bet365 Mile at Sandown over 1m (good) in April. STEWARDS NOTE: Following its run on 25/4/2025 it was reported that the horse ran freely. Official BHA Rating 109
Luke Morris
C. Soumillon
Ryan Moore
Kieran O’Neill
Richard Kingscote
Clifford Lee
7 ROYAL DUBAI (FR) (38)
B h Seahenge (USA) - Sand Rose (FR) (Aussie Rules (USA))
Owner Mr Saeed Sultan Al Rahoomi
Trainer Marco Botti, Newmarket
Breeder Agricola GEM SRL & Agricola La Pluma
ROYAL BLUE, WHITE chevron, checked sleeves.
5 9-8 (4)
Form 463-554 D
Sponsored by Marco Botti Ltd
He has won four times from 7f to 1m 1f on good ground and on the all-weather. Finished 5l behind Sardinian Warrior when fourth of 11 at 12-1 on his latest outing at Ascot over 1m (good to firm) in April. Official BHA Rating 105
8 TYRRHENIAN SEA (IRE) (38)
7 9-8 (8)
Gr g Dark Angel (IRE) - Nocturne (GER) (Rock of Gibraltar (IRE))
Owner Flaxman Stables Ireland Ltd
Trainer Roger Varian, Newmarket
Breeder Flaxman Stables Ireland Ltd
Form 1/332-10
DARK BLUE, LIGHT BLUE cross belts, diabolo on sleeves, WHITE cap.
Winner of five races from 1m to 1m 2f on the all-weather. Beaten 7l behind Sardinian Warrior at 12-1 when seventh of 11 on his latest outing at Ascot over 1m (good to firm) in April. Official BHA Rating 108
9 ROYAL PLAYWRIGHT (GB) (23)
B c Lope de Vega (IRE) - Arabian Queen (IRE) (Dubawi (IRE))
Owner Mr J. C. Smith
Trainer Andrew Balding, Kingsclere
Breeder Littleton Stud
PURPLE, LIGHT BLUE chevron, LIGHT BLUE cap.
Form 1320-30
3 8-10 (3)
A winner at 7f on good ground. Beaten 5l behind Pride Of Arras at 12-1 when 9th of 11 on his latest outing in the Group 2 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai Dante Stakes at York over 1m 2f (good to firm) last month. Official BHA Rating 104
RESULT
RACING POST STANDARD TIME
1m 113y - 1m 42.9s
HBLB
The Horserace Betting Levy Board prize fund schemes provide for the estimated inclusion of £539,290 in ratecard and incremental prize money at this racecourse from 29th March to 22nd June 2025.
DAYS OF THE WEEK
The Derby has been run on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday, and usually takes place on the first Saturday in June. It was permanently switched from Wednesday to Saturday in 1995.
Rossa Ryan
Jack Mitchell
Oisin Murphy
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T H I R D RA CE 2 .10
The Betfred 3YO “Dash” Handicap Stakes (Class 3)
FIVE FURLONGS (5f) for three yrs old
Total prize fund £75000
For conditions of this race see page 80
EPSOM RACE SUMMARY
RUBY'S PROFIT has landed a plumb draw for a front-runner and it would be no surprise to see her blaze an unstoppable trail on the near side of the track. On the back of a comfortable success over the fast 5f at Goodwood, there is plenty to like, despite the Dr Richard Newland and Jamie Insole-trained filly being hit with a 6lb higher mark. From the lower numbers, Mademoiselle and Against The Wind appear to be strong candidates to hold sway on their side, while Cape Sovereign and Naana's Sparkle are a couple of others that also merit consideration.
WIN: RUBY'S PROFIT
EACH-WAY: Mademoiselle
PRESENTATION
Betfred is kindly awarding £250 to the racing groom responsible for the best turned out horse in this race, as well as a memento to the winning owner, trainer, jockey and groom.
RACE FACTS
LEADING COURSE TRAINER (20-25): J Boyle (14 wins from 152 runners, 9%) runs RAJETERIAT
TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): G Scott (5 wins from 28 runners, 18%) runs MADEMOISELLE STALLS: STANDS SIDE
NUMBER OF DECLARED RUNNERS 18
Tongue Strap worn first time by No. 8. Blinkers worn by No. 8. Visor worn by No. 12. Tongue Strap worn by No. 2. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 9.
WHITE, DARK BLUE star, DARK BLUE sleeves, RED armlets, DARK BLUE cap. Successful twice at 5f on good to firm ground and on the all-weather. Third of 22 behind The Man beaten 2 1/2l at 5-1fav on his latest outing at York over 5f (good to firm) last month STEWARDS NOTE: Following its run on 16/5/2025 it was reported that the horse hung right-handed. Official BHA Rating 94 Tom Eaves
2 RUBY’S PROFIT (IRE) (14)
B f Profitable (IRE) - Breedj (IRE) (Acclamation)
Owner Sas Logistics Contracts Ltd
Trainer Dr Richard Newland & Jamie Insole, Droitwich Breeder Mylestown Farms Ltd
MAROON, ROYAL BLUE epaulets.
9-8 (18)
Form 443-121 D Sponsored by Tattersalls
She has won three times at 5f on good ground and on the all-weather. Won on her latest outing when 6-4fav at Goodwood over 5f (good) last month, beating Mademoiselle by 1/2l. Has also won at Wolverhampton this season. Official BHA Rating 93
3 STORMY IMPACT (GB) (35)
B f Study of Man (IRE) - Colorada (Lope de Vega (IRE))
Owner Mr Steve Bradley
Trainer Richard Fahey, Malton
Breeder Smarden Thoroughbreds
9-5 (7)
Form 22251-6 D
RED, BLACK Cross of Lorraine, striped sleeves. A winner at 5f on good ground. Finished 7l behind Invictus Gold when sixth of 12 at 22-1 on her latest outing at Newmarket over 6f (good) last month. Official BHA Rating 90
4 LEXINGTON BLITZ (IRE) (22)
B c Invincible Spirit (IRE) - Broken Time (IRE) (Iffraaj)
Owner Middleham Park Racing LIV
Trainer Robert Cowell, Newmarket
Breeder Troy & Joey Cullen & Irish National Stud
Form 4110-0 D Sponsored by Al Basti Equiworld
9-2 (3)
LIGHT BLUE, ORANGE epaulets.
Successful twice at 5f on good to firm and good ground. Beaten 9l behind The Man at 16-1 when 15th of 22 on his latest outing at York over 5f (good to firm) last month. Official BHA Rating 87
5 MADEMOISELLE (GB) (14)
B f Blue Point (IRE) - Delevigne (Redoute’s Choice (AUS))
Owner Amo Racing Limited
Trainer George Scott, Newmarket
Breeder Highclere Stud & HMH Management
VIOLET, WHITE quartered cap.
9-1 (5)
Form 04311-2 D
Sponsored by Sports Invest UK Ltd
Successful twice at 5f on good ground and on the all-weather. Beaten 1/2l by Ruby’s Profit when second of 10 at 20-1 on her latest outing at Goodwood over 5f (good) last month. Official BHA Rating 86
6 ELOUISE’S PRINCE (IRE) (22)
B c Cotai Glory - Maremmasanta (Kodiac)
Owner Newtownstewart Construction UK Ltd
Trainer Robert Cowell, Newmarket
Breeder Mr Padraic O’Neill
BROWN, BEIGE epaulets, ORANGE sleeves, BEIGE cap.
9-1 (10)
Form 011-0 D
Sponsored by Craig Group
Successful twice at 5f on the all-weather. Beaten 17l behind The Man at 20-1 when 20th of 22 on his latest outing at York over 5f (good to firm) last month. Official BHA Rating 86
Kieran Shoemark
Warren Fentiman (5)
Sean Levey
David Egan
Luke Morris
7 GOLD STAR HERO (IRE)
(31) 9-0 (13)
Ch c Starspangledbanner (AUS) - Hightime Heroine (IRE) (Danetime (IRE))
Owner Middleham Park Racing LXXXIV
Trainer Michael Bell, Newmarket Breeder T. Stack
LIGHT BLUE, ORANGE epaulets, ORANGE cap.
Form 410-0
Sponsored by Tattersalls
A winner at 6f on the all-weather. Beaten 12l behind Redorange at 15-2 when eighth of 10 on his latest outing at Chester over 5f (good) last month. Official BHA Rating 85
8 CONVO (IRE) (31)
B f Kodiac - Quick Chat (USA) (First Defence (USA))
Owner Daniel MacAuliffe & Anoj Don
Trainer Lemos De Souza, Newmarket Breeder Coseda Ltd
9-0 (12)
Form 20560-6
Sponsored by Class1Personnel
RED, ROYAL BLUE star, ROYAL BLUE sleeves, WHITE stars, ROYAL BLUE cap, WHITE star. A winner at 4f on heavy ground. Finished 10l behind Redorange when sixth of 10 at 40-1 on her latest outing at Chester over 5f (good) last month. She is wearing a tongue-tie for the first time. Official BHA Rating 85
9 BLINKY (IRE) (31)
Ch g Mehmas (IRE) - Goodnight And Joy (IRE) (Rip Van Winkle (IRE))
8-13 (17)
Owner Ryedale Racing
Trainer Antony Brittain, Warthill Breeder Paul McCartan
Form 3-02113 D
Sponsored by Asset Finance Solutions (UK) Ltd.
WHITE, ORANGE chevrons and armlets. He has won three times at 5f on good to soft ground and on the all-weather. Third of 10 behind Redorange beaten 2 3/4l at 12-1 on his latest outing at Chester over 5f (good) last month. Official BHA Rating 84
10 AL HUSSAR (GB) (22)
Br g Bated Breath - Queen’s Charter (Oasis Dream)
Owner The Gathering and partner
Trainer Grant Tuer, Northallerton
Breeder Biddestone Stud Ltd
8-12 (9)
Form 0151-00 D
WHITE, ROYAL BLUE diamond, ROYAL BLUE sleeves, WHITE armlets, ROYAL BLUE cap. He has won three times at 5f on good to firm and soft ground and on the all-weather. Beaten 9l behind The Man at 50-1 when 16th of 22 on his latest outing at York over 5f (good to firm) last month. Official BHA Rating 83
11 NAANA’S SPARKLE (GB) (14)
B g Twilight Son - Sweet And Dandy (IRE) (Dandy Man (IRE))
Owner John Hall and A Haynes
Trainer Alice Haynes, Newmarket
Breeder Mr K. T. O’Neill
8-11 (11)
Form 4414-33 Sponsored by Coral Racing Limited
PINK, LIGHT BLUE stars, LIGHT BLUE sleeves, PINK stars, PINK cap, LIGHT BLUE star. A winner at 6f on the all-weather. Third of 10 behind Ruby’s Profit beaten 1 3/4l at 11-1 on his latest outing at Goodwood over 5f (good) last month. Official BHA Rating 82
12 CRESSIDA WILDES (GB) (14)
B f Showcasing - Dancing Warrior (War Command (USA))
Owner G4 Contracts
Trainer Phil McEntee, Newmarket
Breeder Whitsbury Manor Stud
8-6 (8)
Form 104025 D
RED and BLACK (quartered), WHITE and RED check sleeves, BLACK cap, RED star. A winner at 5f on the all-weather. Finished 3 1/2l behind Ruby’s Profit when fifth of 10 at 18-1 at Goodwood over 5f (good) last month. Also entered at Bath last night. Official BHA Rating 77
Hector Crouch
Tom Marquand
Cam Hardie
Harrison Shaw
Kieran O’Neill
Grace McEntee
13
RAJETERIAT (GB)
(14)
Ch g Mehmas (IRE) - Electric Ladyland (IRE) (Cable Bay (IRE))
Owner Jastar Capital Limited
Trainer Jim Boyle, Epsom
Breeder Jastar Capital Limited
ORANGE, PINK epaulets.
8-6 (16)
Form 3326-3
Sponsored by Jastar Capital Limited
Placed twice in five starts. Third of 6 behind Realign beaten 6l at 25-1 on his latest outing at Salisbury over 6f (good to firm) last month. Official BHA Rating 77
14 GLORIOUS KITTY (IRE) (84)
B f Cotai Glory - Destiny’s Kitten (IRE) (Naaqoos)
Owner Middleham Park & South Bank Racing
Trainer Michael & David Easterby, Sheriff Hutton
Breeder Mr P. Turley
LIGHT BLUE, ORANGE epaulets, WHITE cap.
8-4 (1)
Form 40-3
Sponsored by Middleham Park Racing, Southbank Racing, Vincent & Partners Limited
Unplaced in all three starts. Third of 7 behind Scattering Light beaten 1 1/2l at 17-2 on her latest outing at Wolverhampton over 6f in March. Official BHA Rating 75
15
ACRISIUS (GB) (22)
B g Ardad (IRE) - Aetna (Indesatchel (IRE))
Owner Mr B. Padgett
Trainer Michael & David Easterby, Sheriff Hutton
Breeder Mr Brian Padgett
8-3 (4)
Form 5231-20 D Sponsored by Stittenham Farms
WHITE, RED cross belts, RED and WHITE striped sleeves, hooped cap.
A winner at 5f on good to firm ground. Beaten 18l behind The Man at 16-1 when last of 22 on his latest outing at York over 5f (good to firm) last month. STEWARDS NOTE: Following its run on 16/5/2025 it was reported that the trainer could not explain the poor run. Official BHA Rating 74
16 CAPE SOVEREIGN (IRE) (22)
B g Ten Sovereigns (IRE) - Cape Elizabeth (IRE) (Invincible Spirit (IRE))
8-2 (14)
Owner Hambleton Racing Ltd XLVII
Trainer Kevin Ryan, Hambleton
Breeder Minch Bloodstock
BEIGE, DARK BLUE armlets, DARK BLUE cap.
Form 334-224 Sponsored by Hambleton Racing Ltd
Placed in five of seven starts. Finished 3 1/2l behind The Man when fourth of 22 at 15-2 on his latest outing at York over 5f (good to firm) last month. Official BHA Rating 73
17 TEES AGGREGATES (IRE) (4)
B g Earthlight (IRE) - Club Prive (IRE) (Acclamation)
Owner Ingleby Bloodstock Ltd & The Ivy League
Trainer Adrian Nicholls, Sessay
Breeder Deer Forest Stud
8-2 (15)
Form 66-2610 D
Sponsored by Adrian Nicholls Racing, Scott Bros Ltd
ROYAL BLUE, YELLOW epaulets, ROYAL BLUE sleeves, YELLOW stars, RED cap. Successful twice at 5f on good to firm ground. Beaten 8l behind Winchurch at 9-2 when seventh of 9 on his latest outing at Leicester over 5f (good to firm) earlier this month. Runs from 1lb out of handicap. Official BHA Rating 72
18 SANDSCREENDELIVERD (GB) (4)
B g Bated Breath - Blue Aegean (Invincible Spirit (IRE))
Owner Mr Peter Crate
Trainer Peter Crate, Reigate
Breeder Peter Crate
8-2 (2)
Form 235-020
Sponsored by J & J Franks Ltd RED, GREY sleeves, RED and GREY hooped cap.
Placed in three of six starts. Beaten 9l behind Solar Edge at 7-2 when last of 8 on his latest outing at Lingfield over 5f (good) earlier this month. Runs from 4lb out of handicap. STEWARDS NOTE: Following its run on 3/6/2025 it was reported that the horse slipped leaving the stalls. Official BHA Rating 69
Joe Leavy
Joanna Mason
Tom Kiely-Marshall (5)
Hollie Doyle
Sean Dylan Bowen
Isobelle Chalmers (7)
OPEN-AIR SYMPHONY
Clear skies, endless roads, and the purest connection between driver and machine.
F O U R T H RA CE 2 . 45
The Aston Martin “Dash” Handicap Stakes (Heritage Handicap) (Class 2)
FIVE FURLONGS (5f) for three yrs old and upwards
Total prize fund £100000
For conditions of this race see page 80
EPSOM RACE SUMMARY
There is no shortage of early pace on show in this line-up and it might be worth taking a chance on last year's victor DREAM COMPOSER, who came from off the speed to land the spoils 12 months ago. James Evans' charge is 9lb higher this time around but April's Pontefract second proved he is more than capable of going close from a similar mark. Top-weight Clarendon House lost all chance when all but refusing to race last year though he'll be a force if breaking on terms. Spartan Arrow should relish a return to this venue, while the consistent Jm Jungle isn't one to discount.
WIN: DREAM COMPOSER
EACH-WAY: Clarendon House
PRESENTATION
Aston Martin is kindly awarding £150 to the racing groom responsible for the best turned out horse in this race, as well as a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey.
RACE FACTS
LEADING COURSE TRAINER (20-25):
M Appleby (4 wins from 24 runners, 17%) runs BLIND BEGGAR
TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS):
M Appleby (5 wins from 29 runners, 17%) runs BLIND BEGGAR
STALLS: STANDS SIDE
NUMBER OF DECLARED RUNNERS 19
Blinkers worn by No. 18. Tongue Strap worn by No. 16. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 4, 5, 12, 14, 17, 19.
Probable S.P.’s - 7-1 Jm Jungle (IRE), Jer Batt (IRE), 12-1 Spartan Arrow (IRE), Existent (GB), 14-1 Clarendon House (GB), Democracy Dilemma (IRE), Fair Wind (GB), 16-1 Desert Cop (GB), Rhythm N Hooves (GB), Michaela’s Boy (IRE), 18-1 Dream Composer (FR), 22-1 Vintage Clarets (GB), 28-1 Tees Spirit (GB), Nogo’s Dream (GB), 33-1 Blind Beggar (IRE), 40-1 Ziggy’s Missile (IRE), Marching Mac (IRE), 50-1 The Bell Conductor (IRE), One Night Stand (GB)
LAST YEAR’S WINNER DREAM COMPOSER (FR)
RIDDEN BY: Joe Leavy
OWNED BY: Peter Clarke Racing Partners
TRAINED BY: James Evans | S/P 6-1 (14 ran)
1 CLARENDON HOUSE (GB)
(35) 7 9-12 (15)
B g Mehmas (IRE) - Walaaa (IRE) (Exceed And Excel (AUS))
Owner Middleham Park Racing VIII
Trainer Robert Cowell, Newmarket Breeder D. R. Tucker
Form 5004-13 D
Sponsored by Al Basti Equiworld
LIGHT BLUE, ORANGE epaulets. Has won ten races from 5f to 6f on ground varying from firm to good - yielding and on the all-weather. Third of 11 behind Rumstar beaten 4l at 12-1 on his latest outing in the Group 3 Palace House Stakes at Newmarket over 5f (good) last month. Official BHA Rating 108
2 DEMOCRACY DILEMMA (IRE)
(7) 5 9-8 (6)
B g Cotai Glory - Majestic Alexander (IRE) (Bushranger (IRE))
Owner Mrs Fitri Hay
Trainer Robert Cowell, Newmarket Breeder Mountarmstrong Stud
Form 4146-05 D Sponsored by JMH Group
PINK, EMERALD GREEN chevron, halved sleeves, EMERALD GREEN and PINK quartered cap. Winner of seven races at 5f on ground varying from good to firm to heavy and on the all-weather
Finished 2 3/4l behind Balmoral Lady when fifth of 8 at 14-1 on his latest outing at Haydock over 5f (good) last month. Official BHA Rating 104
3 DESERT COP (GB) (92)
B g Oasis Dream - Speed Cop (Cadeaux Genereux)
Owner Turf Club 2024
Trainer George Baker, Epsom Breeder Littleton Stud
5 9-4 (19)
Form 00-0221 D Sponsored by Vortex Shipbroking
EMERALD GREEN, YELLOW striped sleeves, hooped cap. He has won four times from 5f to 6f on good ground and on the all-weather. Won on his latest outing at Bahrain over 5f (gd) beating Swift Asset by 1 1/2 lengths in March. Official BHA Rating 100
4 SPARTAN ARROW (IRE) (23)
B g Sioux Nation (USA) - Thames Pageant (Dansili)
Owner Hambleton Racing Ltd XXXI and Partner
Trainer Archie Watson, Upper Lambourn
Breeder Pier House Stud
BEIGE, DARK BLUE armlets, DARK BLUE cap.
5 9-3 (18)
Form 3-01410 CD Sponsored by Hambleton Racing Ltd
He has won four times at 5f on good to firm and good ground and on the all-weather. Beaten 5l behind American Affair at 13-2 when 10th of 17 on his latest outing at York over 5f (good to firm) last month. Official BHA Rating 99
5 DREAM COMPOSER (FR) (30)
7 9-2 (3)
B g Dream Ahead (USA) - High Spice (USA) (Songandaprayer (USA))
Owner Peter Clarke Racing Partners
Trainer James Evans, Kinnersley
Breeder Khalifa Dasmal
BLACK, RED stars, BLACK sleeves.
Form 3100-20 CD
Sponsored by The Little Jet Company Ltd
Has won ten races from 5f to 6f on ground varying from good to firm to good to soft and on the all-weather. Beaten 6l behind Roman Dragon at 14-1 when 10th of 12 on his latest outing at Chester over 5f (good) last month. Official BHA Rating 98
6 TEES SPIRIT (GB) (23)
Br g Swiss Spirit - Mistress Twister (Pivotal)
Owner Ingleby Bloodstock Ltd & The Ivy League
Trainer Adrian Nicholls, Sessay
Breeder Ingleby Bloodstock Ltd
7 9-2 (16)
Form 310-050 CD
Sponsored by Adrian Nicholls Racing, Scott Bros Ltd
ROYAL BLUE, YELLOW epaulets, ROYAL BLUE sleeves, YELLOW stars, RED cap.
Has won nine races from 5f to 6f on good to firm and good ground. Beaten 20l behind American Affair at 18-1 when last of 17 on his latest outing at York over 5f (good to firm) last month. Official BHA Rating 98
Sean Levey
Rossa Ryan
Pat Cosgrave
Hollie Doyle
Joe Leavy
Jack Nicholls (7)
7
JM
JUNGLE
(IRE) (7) 5 9-0 (7)
B g Bungle Inthejungle - The Shrew (Dansili)
Owner MPS Racing Ltd & The Ayrshire Tradesmen
Trainer John & Sean Quinn, Malton Breeder Lodge Park Stud
Form 135-223 D BF
Sponsored by JJ Quinn Racing Ltd
LIGHT GREEN, WHITE stars on sleeves, LIGHT GREEN cap, WHITE star. He has won four times at 5f on ground varying from good to firm to soft. Third of 13 behind Habooba beaten 1 3/4l at 4-1fav on his latest outing at York over 5f (good) last month. Official BHA Rating 96
8 VINTAGE CLARETS (GB) (23)
B g Ardad (IRE) - Enchanted Princess (Royal Applause)
Owner Mr A Tattersall & Partner
Trainer Richard Fahey, Malton
Breeder M. E. Broughton
6 8-12 (2)
Form 10-0036 D
Sponsored by Tote
MAROON and LIGHT BLUE diabolo, halved sleeves, MAROON cap.
Has won nine races at 5f on ground varying from good to firm to heavy and on the all-weather. Finished 2 3/4l behind American Affair when sixth of 17 at 33-1 on his latest outing at York over 5f (good to firm) last month. Official BHA Rating 94
9 THE BELL CONDUCTOR (IRE) (41) 8
B g Dandy Man (IRE) - Saffian (Dubawi (IRE))
Owner Alfa Site Services Ltd
Trainer Ivan Furtado, Wiseton
Breeder Mr Denis B. McCarthy
GREY, RED seams, GREY sleeves, RED and GREY hooped cap.
Form 50100-0 D
Sponsored by Alfa Site Services Ltd
8-12 (17)
Has won eight races from 5f to 6f on ground varying from good to heavy and on the all-weather. Beaten 14l behind Prince Of Pillo at 50-1 when 12th of 13 on his latest outing at Southwell over 6f in April. Official BHA Rating 94
10 FAIR WIND (GB) (30)
Gr g Tasleet - Gone Sailing (Mizzen Mast (USA))
Owner Kennet Valley Syndicates V
Trainer Owen Burrows, Lambourn
Breeder D. R. Botterill
5 8-11 (13)
Form 2141T-0 D
Sponsored by Enborne Vineyards Limited
NAVY BLUE, RED and LIGHT BLUE hoop and armlets, WHITE cap.
He has won four times at 5f on good and soft ground and on the all-weather. Beaten 7l behind Roman Dragon at 12-1 when last of 12 on his latest outing at Chester over 5f (good) last month. Official BHA Rating 93
WHITE, EMERALD GREEN Cross of Lorraine, chevrons on sleeves, PINK cap.
He has won three times at 5f on good and good to soft ground and on the all-weather. Finished 2 3/4l behind Roman Dragon when fifth of 12 at 10-3 on his latest outing at Chester over 5f (good) last month STEWARDS NOTE:
Following its run on 8/5/2025 it was reported that the horse hung left-handed under pressure. Official BHA Rating 92
12 RHYTHM N HOOVES (GB) (19)
B g Pearl Secret - Street Jazz (Acclamation)
Owner The Cool Silk Partnership
Trainer Robert Cowell, Newmarket
Breeder The Cool Silk Partnership
WHITE, PURPLE cap.
5 8-7 (11)
Form 314243 D
Sponsored by Al Basti Equiworld
Winner of six races from 5f to 6f on good to firm and good to soft ground and on the all-weather. Third of 8 behind Regal Envoy beaten 1l at 5-1 on his latest outing at Windsor over 5f (good to firm) last month. Official BHA Rating 89
Jason Hart
Warren Fentiman (5)
Tom Eaves
David Probert
Oisin Murphy
James Sullivan
13 MICHAELA’S BOY (IRE) (15) 5 8-6 (1)
Ch g Ribchester (IRE) - Joyce Compton (IRE) (Tamayuz)
Owner Newtownstewart Construction UK Ltd
Trainer Robert Cowell, Newmarket Breeder Redpender Stud Ltd
BROWN, BEIGE epaulets, ORANGE sleeves, BEIGE cap.
Form 130343 D Sponsored by Craig Group
Winner of five races at 5f on good ground and on the all-weather. Third of 13 behind Enchanting beaten 4l at 7-1 on his latest outing at Goodwood over 5f (good) last month. Official BHA Rating 88
14
ZIGGY’S MISSILE
(IRE) (19) 4 8-5 (10)
B g Blue Point (IRE) - Shafaani (Green Desert (USA))
Owner Middleham Park Racing LXXI
Trainer Robert Cowell, Newmarket Breeder Mr Andrew McNally
LIGHT BLUE, ORANGE epaulets, ORANGE cap.
Form 5-64110 D Sponsored by Al Basti Equiworld
Winner of five races at 5f on good ground and on the all-weather. Beaten 12l behind Regal Envoy at 10-1 when seventh of 8 on his latest outing at Windsor over 5f (good to firm) last month. Has won at Southwell and Nottingham this season. Official BHA Rating 87
15 EXISTENT (GB)
(19) 7 8-3 (14)
B g Kingman - Entity (Shamardal (USA))
Owner Mrs J. Morley
Trainer Stuart Williams, Newmarket Breeder Cheveley Park Stud Limited
Form 432222 D Sponsored by Tote
YELLOW, BLACK chevron, BLACK sleeves, YELLOW stars, BLACK cap, YELLOW star. He has won three times from 5f to 7f on heavy ground and on the all-weather, but last win was over three years ago. Beaten a head by Regal Envoy when second of 8 at 9-1 on his latest outing at Windsor over 5f (good to firm) last month. Official BHA Rating 85
16 MARCHING MAC (IRE) (15)
B g Invincible Army (IRE) - Wojha (IRE) (Pivotal)
Owner Mr Trevor Johnson
Trainer Phil McEntee, Newmarket Breeder Yeomanstown Stud
4 8-2 (5)
Form 21115-0 D
Sponsored by Tallon International Ltd BLACK, RED armlets.
Winner of five races from 5f to 6f on ground varying from good to heavy. Beaten 10l behind Enchanting at 22-1 when 10th of 13 on his latest outing at Goodwood over 5f (good) last month. Runs from 1lb out of handicap. STEWARDS NOTE: Following its run on 23/5/2025 it was reported that the horse was denied a clear run 1f out. Official BHA Rating 83
17 ONE NIGHT STAND (GB) (36)
B g Swiss Spirit - Tipsy Girl (Haafhd)
Owner Chappell & Dixon
Trainer Scott Dixon, Rolleston Breeder Mr S. Hoskins & Trickledown Stud
8 8-2 (8)
Form 6-02666 D
Sponsored by Tote WHITE, BEIGE stripe.
Has won ten races from 5f to 6f on good to firm and good ground and on the all-weather. Finished 2 1/4l behind Protest Rally when sixth of 9 at 22-1 on his latest outing at Musselburgh over 5f (good) last month. Runs from 4lb out of handicap. STEWARDS NOTE: Following its run on 2/5/2025 it was reported that the horse hung right-handed. Official BHA Rating 80
18 BLIND BEGGAR (IRE) (9) 7 8-2 (4)
B g Equiano (FR) - Beylerbey (USA) (Street Cry (IRE))
Owner B & M Pallets Ltd
Trainer Michael Appleby, Oakham Breeder Pat Beirne
Form 345043 D
Sponsored by B & M Pallets Ltd
ROYAL BLUE, YELLOW hoops, chevrons on sleeves, ROYAL BLUE cap.
Winner of six races from 5f to 6f on good and heavy ground and on the all-weather. Third of 10 behind Moonstone Boy beaten 3 1/2l at 10-1 on his latest outing at Carlisle over 5f (good to soft) last month.
Runs from 4lb out of handicap. Official BHA Rating 80
Luke Morris
Ray Dawson
Rose Dawes (5)
Grace McEntee
Kieran O’Neill
Tom Kiely-Marshall (5)
19 NOGO’S DREAM (GB) (6)
B g Oasis Dream - Morning Chimes (IRE) (Shamardal (USA))
Owner RJ Rexton and CD Dickens
Trainer Richard Hughes, Upper Lambourn Breeder Foursome Thoroughbreds
5 8-2 (12)
Form 401313 D Sponsored by Agetur (UK) Ltd
DARK GREEN,YELLOW mirrored ‘R’s bisected by a crossed hook,collar,cuffs & cap,DARK GREEN button on cap & cuffs
He has won three times at 5f on good to firm ground and on the all-weather Third of 11 behind Spring Is Sprung beaten 1 1/4l at 5-1 on his latest outing at Chelmsford City over 5f earlier this month. Has won at Windsor and Chelmsford City this season. Official BHA Rating 79
RESULT
RACING POST STANDARD TIME
5f - 53.8s
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THE BETFRED DERBY
In 1776, ‘Gentleman’ Johnny Burgoyne, a soldier, playwright and politician who married into the Derby family and had passed on the lease of his Surrey mansion, the Oaks, to the 12th Earl of Derby, Edward Smith-Stanley, urged his friend to introduce a race for three-year-old fillies over a mile and a half to emulate old comrade in arms Anthony St Leger, founder of the St Leger at Doncaster.
Three years later, on May 14th 1779, the Downs above the spa town of Epsom hosted the initial Oaks and, appropriately, Lord Derby’s Bridget was victorious. At a celebratory party that evening, Burgoyne proposed, because the Oaks had been such a great success, a similar race should be founded for both colts and fillies.
Sir Charles Bunbury, a distinguished figure in the world of horseracing, was behind the concept of racing over a mile or a mile and a half. Legend has it that Bunbury and Derby discussed the possibility and all that was left to do was name the race. Apparently, it was the toss of a coin in the latter’s favour that secured the race title, which started a worldwide franchise and lives on as strongly as ever.
On May 4th 1780, the inaugural Derby Stakes was run for £1,065 15s. Despite losing the flip of the coin, Bunbury gained some compensation when Diomed carried his pink and white silks to success over a mile. The distance was changed to the present mile and a half in 1784.
Lord Derby had to wait until 1787 before he saw his colours triumph in the Classic, when the previously unraced Sir Peter Teazle scored under Sam Arnull. Sir Peter Teazle was retired to stud in October 1789 and developed into a great sire.
By the middle of the 19th Century, The Derby had established itself as the most important race of the year in Britain, with many thousands flocking to Epsom Downs where there was also a huge fair.
The Classic used to be run on the first Wednesday in June, but since 1995 has taken place on the first Saturday of that month. The British Parliament did not sit on Derby Day for many years, such was the prestige of the premier Classic.
Copies of the race were spawned around the world and there are now well over 100 different Derbys, some very illustrious like the Kentucky Derby and others less so.
After the American Civil War, the Kentucky thoroughbred industry experienced hard times and Colonel Meriwether Lewis Clark represented a group interested in reviving racing in the US state He travelled to England and France in 1872 to study European horseracing. While in England, Colonel Clark saw the famous Derby at Epsom Downs and, when he returned to Louisville, he made plans to create a race like the one he had witnessed.
The first Kentucky Derby was run at Churchill Downs in 1875, takes place on dirt rather than turf and is contested over a mile and a quarter rather than a mile and a half. The name Derby was used in America and many other countries to denote the best race for three-year-olds.
Epsom Downs Racecourse in Surrey has always been the stage for the premier British Classic, except during both World Wars (1915-1918, 1940-1945) when the course was used to house prisoners of war A substitute race, the New Derby, was staged at Newmarket instead.
The Betfred Derby, a supreme challenge for three-year-olds over the unique undulating Epsom Downs track, remains the most prestigious Flat race in the world. It is staged for the 246th time in 2025 and sponsored for the second time by Betfred. Its prize fund stands at least £1.5 million in 2025, making it the most valuable horse race staged in the UK.
The Derby boasts an illustrious roll of honour, which includes Bay Middleton, Ormonde, Isinglass, Hyperion and Bahram, while the last 60 years alone have seen such luminaries prevail as Sea-Bird, Nijinsky, Mill Reef, Shergar, Nashwan, Generous, Lammtarra, Galileo, High Chaparral, New Approach, Sea The Stars and Golden Horn.
Such names contribute to The Derby’s rich history, partly through their outstanding performances over Epsom Downs but also, for some, through their legacy as leading stallions. Galileo, European champion sire in 2008 thanks largely to his Derby winner New Approach and Coronation Cup victor Soldier Of Fortune and again from 2010 to 2020 inclusive, demonstrated his prowess over the course in 2001. Galileo has since sired a record five winners of the Betfred Derby, most recently Serpentine in 2020.
As recently as last year, the Betfred Derby winner City Of Troy went on to be named the world’s joint-best horse of 2024 at the Longines World Racing Awards.
THE BETFRED DERBY
Owner: M Tabor & D
& Mrs J Magnier & Westerberg Trainer: Aidan O’Brien Jockey: R. Moore
Owner:
Owner:
Owner: Mrs D Smith, Mrs John Magnier & M Tabor
Trainer: Aidan O’Brien Jockey: P. Beggy
Owner: H. H. Aga Khan
Trainer: Dermot Weld Jockey: P. Smullen
Owner: A E Oppenheimer
Trainer: John Gosden Jockey: L. Dettori
Owner: D Smith/Mrs J Magnier/M Tabor/T Ah Khing
Trainer: Aidan O’Brien Jockey: J. O’Brien
Owner:Mrs John Magnier, Mr M Tabor & Mr D Smith
Trainer: Aidan O’Brien Jockey: R. L. Moore
Owner: Mrs D Smith, Mrs John Magnier & M Tabor
Trainer: Aidan O’Brien Jockey: J. O’Brien
Owner: Mrs John Magnier, M Tabor & D Smith
Trainer: Andre Fabre Jockey: M. Barzalona
Owner: K.
Owner: Christopher Tsui
Owner: H.R.H Princess Haya Of Jordan
Trainer: Sir Michael Stoute Jockey: R. L. Moore
Owner: Saleh Al Homaizi & Imad Al Sagar
Trainer: John Oxx Jockey: M. J. Kinane
Trainer: J. S Bolger Jockey: K. Manning
Trainer: Peter Chapple-Hyam Jockey: L. Dettori
Owner: A. E. Pakenham
Trainer: Marcus Tregoning Jockey: M. Dwyer
Owner: The Royal Ascot Racing Club
Trainer: Michael Bell Jockey: J. Murtagh
TOBERUNINHONOUROF HISHIGHNESSTHEAGAKHANIV
This year’s Betfred Derby will be run in honour of His Highness Aga Khan IV.
In a special tribute to the spiritual leader of the world’s Ismaili Muslims and one of the greatest philanthropists, who passed away on February 4th this year in Lisbon at the age of 88, the 246th running of the historic race will be named ‘The Betfred Derby (in honour of His Highness Aga Khan IV)’.
In the world of horseracing, he was among the foremost owner-breeders of his or any other generation. He succeeded his grandfather as Aga Khan in 1957 and on resuming the family’s rich racing traditions in the 1970s went on to emulate him by owning five winners of the premier Classic.
The imperious record-breaking 10-length victory of Shergar for the Aga Khan in the 1981 Derby was followed by wins for Shahrastani (1986), Kahyasi (1988), Sinndar (2000) and Harzand (2016). He also won the Betfred Oaks in 2024 with Ezeliya.
The Aga Khan’s daughter, Princess Zahra, said: “My family and I are incredibly grateful to Epsom Downs and The Jockey Club for running the race in honour of my father.
“The Derby is an iconic event that he deeply loved and winning it for the first time with Shergar brought him immense pride and joy. It gave him the sense that the work his father and grandfather breeding operation
“He eventually matched the record of my great-grandfather when Harzand secured his fifth Derby victory - a wonderful achievement.”
Jim Allen, General Manager of Epsom Downs Racecourse, said: “His Highness the Aga Khan’s enormous contribution to racing in Europe is one which spans not only decades but generations and we wanted to pay tribute to him in the most fitting way possible.
“His famous silks were a familiar sight at Epsom Downs for more than 40 years and were worn by jockeys in some of the most famous renewals of the Derby of all time, from the breathtaking and record-breaking success of Shergar in 1981 to the very poignant moment in 2016 when Harzand’s victory equalled his grandfather’s total of five Derby winners.
“I would like to thank the Aga Khan’s family for supporting us in our decision to rename this year’s race and look forward to welcoming Princess Zahra Aga Khan on Saturday 7th June as our guest.
“We are also grateful to our sponsor, Betfred, for their help in making this possible and all of us at Epsom Downs Racecourse hope that we witness a race that is worthy of his memory.”
THE ROAD TO THE BETFRED DERBY
RULING COURT
The Betfred 2000 Guineas Newmarket - Saturday 3rd May
In a stellar looking renewal of the Betfred 2000 Guineas, it was William Buick in the colours of Godolphin who was first past the post aboard Ruling Court. His only blemish to date came against The Lion In Winter in last year's Group 3 Acomb Stakes at York, where he went down by 2 1/4 lengths He made amends for that defeat at Meydan back in March, where he looked a much improved prospect and indicated that he might get further than the mile. This is a big step up in distance for the son of Justify but if he stays the distance, he certainly has all the class needed to claim victory.
DELACROIX
The Cashel Palace Hotel Derby Trial Stakes Leopardstown - Sunday 11th May
Unbeaten as a three-year-old, Delacroix looks to be the one they all have to beat for Aidan O'Brien. In seven runs, he's been the victor on four occasions and only narrowly lost out in the Group 1 Futurity to Hotazhell by a nose at the end of a long season The pair of Group 3's he has won this year couldn't have been in easier fashion, where he has shown both tactical speed and the ability to hold off his rivals when going from the front He looks to have all the makings of a top class horse and ought to go close in this year's Classic.
LAMBOURN
The Boodles Chester Vase Chester - Wednesday 7th May
Ballydoyle have a fantastic record in the Boodles Chester Vase, so it was no surprise to see another of their runners take the prize back to Ireland. Lambourn didn't look to be the most straightforward of rides for Ryan Moore but once he got into top gear down the home-straight he was not for catching. Aidan O'Brien has won this race with some nice types, including Sir Dragonet, who went off favourite for the Betfred Derby back in 2019. His form ties in nicely with current market leader and stablemate, Delacroix, so can be given every chance of running a big race here.
PRIDE OF ARRAS
The Al Basti Equiworld Dubai Dante Stakes York - Thursday 15th May
While the other three mentioned have been seen plenty of times at the track, we've only seen Pride Of Arras twice. His sole run as a juvenile was pleasing enough when winning a competitive looking Sandown Park maiden but it was his win in the Group 2 Dante that propelled him to near the top of the betting. Sent off one of the outsiders in the market, he sat in touch with the leaders under Rossa Ryan before making his challenge three furlongs out. Once the opening appeared, he demonstrated an excellent turn of foot to get to the front, where he stayed to win by 1 1/4 lengths He adds another fascinating angle to this year's Betfred Derby.
TEN OF THE LAST TWELVE WINNERS had a rating of 109 or higher
7/13 WINNERS HAD WON ON THEIR PREVIOUS START 8/13
winners have come from the first three in the betting
Y A N Has won the Betfred Derby four times
winners at least placed on their last run before The Betfred Derby.
AIDAN O’BRIEN HAS WON THIS 10 TIMES. TODAY RUNS DELACROIX, LAMBOURN & THE LION IN WINTER
The Betfred Derby (In Honour
Of His Highness Aga Khan IV) (Group 1) (Class 1)
ONE MILE about FOUR FURLONGS (12f abt 6yds) for three yrs old colts and fillies
Total prize fund
£1500000
For conditions of this race see page 80
EPSOM RACE SUMMARY
From the likes of Shergar to Galileo and Sea The Stars, all the way to City Of Troy, who was breathtaking in this 12 months ago, it takes a real superstar to land the jewel in the crown of the Flat season. Aidan O'Brien's typically strong contingent appears to be headed by Delacroix, whose dam Tepin has already produced a stout stayer in the form of stablemate Grateful - a winner of the Prix de Royallieu at Longchamp last season. The Lion In Winter had been long touted for this contest but his no-show in the Dante behind Pride Of Arras (winner) and Damysus (second), along with stall 19, tempers enthusiasm. That pair remain of considerable interest, though 2000 Guineas winner RULING COURT is taken to rubber-stamp his credentials as the leading three-year-old. The Justify colt enters unknown territory regarding stamina, but both trainer and jockey have been extremely bullish in the build up and the pair have seldom been wrong in the past. It would be fitting were Midak, who carries the colours of the late Aga Khan, to feature, and the unbeaten Footstepsinthesand colt should not be taken lightly
WIN: RULING COURT
EACH-WAY: Damysus
PRESENTATION
Betfred is kindly awarding £1000 to the racing groom responsible for the best turned out horse in this race, as well as a memento to the winning owner, trainer, jockey and groom.
RACE FACTS
LEADING COURSE TRAINER (20-25):
R Beckett (10 wins from 68 runners, 15%) runs PRIDE OF ARRAS & STANHOPE GARDENS
TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS):
R Hannon (12 wins from 45 runners, 27%) runs NIGHTIME DANCER
STALLS: CENTRE
NUMBER OF DECLARED RUNNERS 19
Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn first time by No. 10. Tongue Strap worn by No. 13.
OWNED BY: Mrs John Magnier & Michael Tabor & Derrick Smith
TRAINED BY: Aidan O’Brien | S/P 3-1 (16 ran)
1 AL WASL STORM (IRE) (29)
Gr c Affinisea (IRE) - Dearborn (FR) (Martaline)
Owner Green Team Racing
Trainer Owen Burrows, Lambourn
Breeder Gavin Wallace
Groom Umesh Babu
9-2 (13)
Form 021 D
WHITE, EMERALD GREEN epaulets and star on cap.
A winner at 9-1 at Chester over 1m 4f (good) on his latest outing last month, beating Orionis by 1 1/4l. Official BHA Rating 86
2 DAMYSUS (GB) (23)
Ch c Frankel - Legerete (USA) (Rahy (USA))
Owner Wathnan Racing
Trainer John & Thady Gosden, Newmarket
Breeder Newsells Park Stud & Merry Fox Stud
Groom Matthew Sheppard
PEACOCK BLUE, OLD GOLD sleeves, RED cap.
9-2 (15)
Form 1-32
Sponsored by Damsa Holding Company W.L.L
A winner at 7f on the all-weather. Beaten 1 1/4l by Pride Of Arras when second of 11 at 16-1 on his latest outing in the Group 2 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai Dante Stakes at York over 1m 2f (good to firm) last month. Official BHA Rating 111
3 DELACROIX (IRE) (27)
B c Dubawi (IRE) - Tepin (USA) (Bernstein (USA))
Owner Mr D. Smith, Mrs J. Magnier, Mr M. Tabor
Trainer Aidan O’Brien, Ireland
Breeder Tepin Syndicate
Form 1212-11
9-2 (14)
PURPLE, WHITE seams, striped sleeves, PURPLE cap. Ryan Moore He has won four times from 7f to 1m 2f on ground varying from good to firm to good - yielding. Won on his latest outing when 1-3fav in the Group 3 Cashel Palace Hotel Derby Trial Stakes at Leopardstown over 1m 2f (good) last month, beating Purview by 2 3/4l. Official BHA Rating 116
4 GREEN STORM (IRE) (53)
9-2 (8)
B c Circus Maximus (IRE) - Banimpire (IRE) (Holy Roman Emperor (IRE))
Owner Ahmad Al Shaikh
Trainer Charlie Johnston, Middleham
Breeder Banimpire Syndicate
Groom Bhanwar Singh
WHITE, EMERALD GREEN epaulets.
Form 22122-4 Sponsored by Johnston Racing Ltd
A winner at 1m 1f on good ground. Finished 11l behind Almeric when fourth of 8 at 7-2 on his latest outing at Newmarket over 1m 1f (good to soft) in April. Official BHA Rating 107
5 LAMBOURN (IRE) (31)
B c Australia - Gossamer Wings (USA) (Scat Daddy (USA))
Owner Mrs John Magnier,Mr M.Tabor & Mr D.Smith
Trainer Aidan O’Brien, Ireland
Breeder Coolmore
DARK BLUE.
9-2 (10)
Form 115-21 D
He has won three times from 1m to 1m 4f on good and heavy ground. Won on his latest outing when 11-8fav in the Group 3 Boodles Chester Vase Stakes at Chester over 1m 4f (good) last month, beating Lazy Griff by 1 1/2l. Official BHA Rating 109
David Probert
James Doyle
Billy Loughnane
W. M. Lordan
1. AL WASL STORM (IRE)
(Breeder - Gavin Wallace)
2. DAMYSUS (GB)
(Breeder - Newsells Park Stud & Merry Fox Stud)
3. DELACROIX (IRE)
(Breeder - Tepin Syndicate)
4. GREEN STORM (IRE)
(Breeder - Banimpire Syndicate)
5. LAMBOURN (IRE)
(Breeder - Coolmore)
Affinisea (IRE)
Sea The Stars (IRE)
Affianced (IRE)
Martaline (GB)
Dearborn (FR)
Princess Roseburg (USA)
Galileo (IRE)
Frankel (GB)
Kind (IRE)
Rahy (USA)
Legerete (USA)
Dubawi (IRE)
Sea Hill (USA)
Dubai Millennium (GB)
Zomaradah (GB)
Bernstein (USA)
Tepin (USA)
Life Happened (USA)
Galileo (IRE)
Circus Maximus (IRE)
Duntle (IRE)
Holy Roman Emperor (IRE)
Cape Cross (IRE)
Urban Sea (USA)
Erins Isle
La Meilleure
Linamix (FR)
Coraline (GB)
Johannesburg (USA)
Rose Bourbon (USA)
Sadler's Wells (USA)
Urban Sea (USA)
Danehill (USA)
Rainbow Lake (GB)
Blushing Groom (FR)
Glorious Song (CAN)
Seattle Slew (USA)
Featherhill (FR)
Seeking The Gold (USA)
Colorado Dancer
Deploy
Jawaher (IRE)
Storm Cat (USA)
La Affirmed (USA)
Stravinsky (USA)
Round It Off (USA)
Sadler's Wells (USA)
Urban Sea (USA)
Danehill Dancer (IRE)
LadyAngola (USA)
Danehill (USA)
L'On Vite (USA)
Banimpire (IRE)
My Renee (USA)
Galileo (IRE)
Australia (GB)
Ouija Board (GB)
Scat Daddy (USA)
Gossamer Wings (USA)
Lavender Baby (USA)
Kris S (USA)
Mayenne (USA)
Sadler's Wells (USA)
Urban Sea (USA)
Cape Cross (IRE)
Selection Board
Johannesburg (USA)
Love Style (USA)
Rubiano (USA)
Mighty Milk (USA)
6 LAZY GRIFF (GER) (31)
9-2 (3)
B c Protectionist (GER) - Linarda (DEN) (Rock of Gibraltar (IRE))
Owner Middleham Park Racing & Mr G Griffiths
Trainer Charlie Johnston, Middleham
Breeder Gestut Westerberg
Groom Louis Kendrick
LIGHT BLUE, ORANGE epaulets.
Form 20131-2
Sponsored by Johnston Racing Ltd
Successful at 7f and 1m 1f on good to firm and good to soft ground. Beaten 1 1/2l by Lambourn when second of 8 at 25-1 on his latest outing in the Group 3 Boodles Chester Vase Stakes at Chester over 1m 4f (good) last month. Official BHA Rating 105
7 MIDAK (FR) (29)
Ch c Footstepsinthesand - Minya (FR) (Sinndar (IRE))
Owner Aga Khan Studs Scea
Trainer Francis-Henri Graffard, France
Breeder Haras de S. A. l’Aga Khan S.C.E.A.
Grooms Mr Antoine Creton & Mr Benjamin Del Rio
Form 111
9-2 (4)
GREEN, RED epaulets. Mickael
He has won three times from 1m 2f to 1m 3f on good and good to soft ground and on the all-weather. A winner at 11-4 in the Group 3 Greffulhe Stakes at Saint-Cloud over 1m 2f (good to soft) on his latest outing last month, beating Dioptase by 2 1/2l. Official BHA Rating 107
8 NEW GROUND (GB) (36)
Ch c New Bay - Gaining (American Post)
Owner Juddmonte
Trainer Henri Francois Devin, France
Breeder Juddmonte Farms Inc
Groom Valentin Wattrelot
GREEN, PINK epaulets, WHITE sleeves, PINK cap.
Form 11-33
9-2 (17)
Sponsored by Juddmonte Farms Inc
Successful at 1m 1f and 1m 2f on good to soft and heavy ground. Third of 7 behind Nitoi beaten 1l at 9-1 on his latest outing at Chantilly over 1m 2f (good to soft) last month. Official BHA Rating 107
9 NIGHTIME DANCER (IRE) (28)
B c Ghaiyyath (IRE) - Stella d’Italia (Sea The Stars (IRE))
Owner Stall Perlen Ab
Trainer Richard Hannon, Marlborough
Breeder Gce Farm Ltd
Groom Vikram Singh
KING BLUE, WHITE disc, sleeves and cap.
9-2 (9)
Form 3-13 D
A winner at 1m 4f on the all-weather. Third of 6 behind Puppet Master beaten 4l at 9-1 on his latest outing at Lingfield over 1m 4f (good to firm) last month. Official BHA Rating 98
10 NIGHTWALKER (GB) (23)
Gr c Frankel - Sleep Walk (Oasis Dream)
Owner Juddmonte
Trainer John & Thady Gosden, Newmarket
Breeder Juddmonte Farms Ltd
Groom Aamir Malik Nazeer
GREEN, PINK sash and cap, WHITE sleeves.
9-2 (5)
Form 313-35
Sponsored by Juddmonte Farms Inc
A winner at 7f on good to firm ground. Finished 3 1/2l behind Pride Of Arras when fifth of 11 at 16-1 on his latest outing in the Group 2 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai Dante Stakes at York over 1m 2f (good to firm) last month. Official BHA Rating 107
C. Soumillon
Barzalona
Alexis Pouchin
Jamie Spencer
Tom Marquand
6. LAZY GRIFF (GER)
(Breeder - Gestut Westerberg)
7. MIDAK (FR)
(Breeder - Haras De S A Aga Khan Scea)
8.
NEW
GROUND (GB)
(Breeder - Juddmonte Farms Inc)
9. NIGHTIME DANCER (IRE)
(Breeder - Gce Farm Ltd)
10. NIGHTWALKER
(GB)
(Breeder - Juddmonte Farms Ltd)
Protectionist (GER)
Linarda (DEN)
Footstepsinthesand (GB)
Monsun (GER)
Patineuse (IRE)
Rock of Gibraltar (IRE)
Miss Skycat (USA)
Giant's Causeway (USA)
Glatisant (GB)
Sinndar (IRE)
Minya (FR)
Minatlya (FR)
Dubawi (IRE)
New Bay (GB)
Gaining (GB)
Cinnamon Bay (GB)
American Post (GB)
Acquisition (GB)
Dubawi (IRE)
Ghaiyyath (IRE)
Konigsstuhl (GER)
Mosella (GER)
Peintre Celebre (USA)
Parisienne (IRE)
Danehill (USA)
Offshore Boom
Tale of The Cat (USA)
Gigi's Skyflyer (USA)
Storm Cat (USA)
Mariah's Storm (USA)
Rainbow Quest (USA)
Dancing Rocks
Grand Lodge (USA)
Sinntara (IRE)
Linamix (FR)
Mintly Fresh (USA)
Dubai Millennium (GB)
Zomaradah (GB)
Zamindar (USA)
Trellis Bay (GB)
Bering
Wells Fargo (GB)
Dansili (GB)
Quota (GB)
Dubai Millennium (GB)
Zomaradah (GB)
Galileo (IRE)
Nightime (IRE)
Sea The Stars (IRE)
Stella d'Italia (GB)
Ragsah (IRE)
Galileo (IRE)
Frankel (GB)
Kind (IRE)
Oasis Dream (GB)
Sleep Walk (GB)
Scuffle (GB)
Caumshinaun (IRE)
Cape Cross (IRE)
Urban Sea (USA)
Shamardal (USA)
Colorado Dancer
Sadler's Wells (USA)
Urban Sea (USA)
Danehill (USA)
Rainbow Lake (GB)
Green Desert (USA)
Hope (IRE)
Daylami (IRE)
Tantina (USA)
11 PRIDE OF ARRAS (IRE) (23)
B c New Bay - Parnell’s Dream (Oasis Dream)
Owner Mrs David Aykroyd
Trainer Ralph Beckett, Kimpton Down
Breeder Mr & Mrs David Aykroyd
Groom Wayton Van Staden
9-2 (16)
Form 1-1
Sponsored by R M Beckett Ltd
LIGHT BLUE and WHITE (quartered), hooped sleeves, LIGHT BLUE cap.
Rossa Ryan
Successful at 1m and 1m 2f on good to firm and good ground. A winner at 18-1 in the Group 2 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai Dante Stakes at York over 1m 2f (good to firm) on his latest outing last month, beating Damysus by 1 1/4l. Official BHA Rating 115
12 ROGUE IMPACT (GB) (28)
B c Study of Man (IRE) - Just So (IRE) (Galileo (IRE))
Owner The Rogues Gallery
Trainer James Owen, Newmarket
Breeder Eric Chen
Groom Rhea Betts
RED, WHITE inverted triangle, halved sleeves.
9-2 (1)
Form 0-16 D
Sponsored by Eco Rider, UK Packaging Supplies Ltd
A winner at 1m 4f on the all-weather. Finished 10l behind Puppet Master when last of 6 at 22-1 on his latest outing at Lingfield over 1m 4f (good to firm) last month. Official BHA Rating 86
13 RULING COURT (USA) (35)
B c Justify (USA) - Inchargeofme (High Chaparral (IRE))
Owner Godolphin
Trainer Charlie Appleby, Newmarket
Breeder Nursery Place, Manfuso & Wilhite
Groom Mr. Qadeer Mohammad
ROYAL BLUE.
Form 13-11 Sponsored by Emirates Fly Better
9-2 (7)
He has won three times from 7f to 1m on good ground. A winner at 9-2 in the Group 1 Betfred 2000 Guineas Stakes at Newmarket over 1m (good) on his latest outing last month, beating Field Of Gold by 1/2l. Has also won at Meydan this season. Official BHA Rating 121
14 SEA SCOUT (IRE) (23)
B c Sea The Stars (IRE) - Wo de Xin (Shamardal (USA))
Owner Mr Abdulla Al Mansoori
Trainer Simon & Ed Crisford, Newmarket
Breeder Sunderland Holding Inc.
9-2 (18)
Form 51-10 C
YELLOW, DARK BLUE sleeves, YELLOW stars, YELLOW cap, DARK BLUE star. Harry Davies
Successful twice at 1m 2f on good ground and on the all-weather. Beaten 5l behind Pride Of Arras at 25-1 when eighth of 11 on his latest outing in the Group 2 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai Dante Stakes at York over 1m 2f (good to firm) last month. Official BHA Rating 105
15 STANHOPE GARDENS (IRE) (14)
Ch c Ghaiyyath (IRE) - Pure Art (Dutch Art)
Owner Marcstown Ltd and New Chelsea
Trainer Ralph Beckett, Kimpton Down
Breeder Tullpark Ltd
Groom Eric Ngwane
Form 312-1
Sponsored by R M Beckett Ltd
9-2 (2)
MAUVE, GOLD chevron, WHITE sleeves, PURPLE stars, WHITE cap, PURPLE star. Hector Crouch
Successful at 7f and 1m on good to firm ground. Won on his latest outing when 2-11fav at Salisbury over 1m (good to firm) last month, beating Spirit Of Farhh by 3 1/2l. Official BHA Rating 111
Luke Morris
William Buick
11. PRIDE OF ARRAS (IRE)
(Breeder - Mr & Mrs David Aykroyd)
12. ROGUE IMPACT (GB)
(Breeder - Eric Chen)
13. RULING COURT (USA)
(Breeder - Nursery Place, Manfuso & Wilhite)
14. SEA SCOUT (IRE)
(Breeder - Sunderland Holding Inc)
15. STANHOPE GARDENS (IRE)
(Breeder - Tullpark Ltd)
New Bay (GB)
Parnell's Dream (GB)
Dubawi (IRE)
Cinnamon Bay (GB)
Oasis Dream (GB)
Kitty O'Shea (GB)
Deep Impact (JPN)
Study of Man (IRE)
So (IRE)
Justify (USA)
Inchargeofme (GB)
Second Happiness (USA)
Galileo (IRE)
Magic Tree (UAE)
Scat Daddy (USA)
Stage Magic (USA)
High Chaparral (IRE)
Inchmina (GB)
Cape Cross (IRE)
Sea The Stars (IRE)
Urban Sea (USA)
Shamardal (USA)
Wo de Xin (GB)
Dubai Millennium (GB)
Zomaradah (GB)
Zamindar (USA)
Trellis Bay (GB)
Green Desert (USA)
Hope (IRE)
Sadler's Wells (USA)
Eva Luna (USA)
Sunday Silence (USA)
Wind In Her Hair (IRE)
Storm Cat (USA)
Miesque (USA)
Sadler's Wells (USA)
Urban Sea (USA)
Timber Country (USA)
Moyesii (USA)
Johannesburg (USA)
Love Style (USA)
Ghostzapper (USA)
Magical Illusion (USA)
Sadler's Wells (USA)
Kasora (IRE)
Cape Cross (IRE)
Incheni (IRE)
Green Desert (USA)
Park Appeal
Miswaki (USA)
Allegretta
Giant's Causeway (USA)
Helsinki (GB)
Diesis
Moonshadow (GB)
Dubawi (IRE)
Ghaiyyath (IRE)
Nightime (IRE)
Dutch Art (GB)
Pure Art (GB)
Pure Song (GB)
La Sky (IRE)
Dubai Millennium (GB)
Zomaradah (GB)
Galileo (IRE)
Caumshinaun (IRE)
Medicean (GB)
Halland Park Lass (IRE)
Singspiel (IRE)
Pure Grain (GB)
16 TENNESSEE STUD (IRE) (27) 9-2 (12)
B c Wootton Bassett - In My Dreams (IRE) (Sadler’s Wells (USA))
Owner Westerberg,Tabor,Magnier,Smith
Trainer Joseph Patrick O’Brien, Ireland
Breeder Mrs Ann Marie O’Brien
Groom Adrian Vasile Pop
Form 3121-3
MAROON, ROYAL BLUE hoop and sleeves, quartered cap.
Dylan Browne McMonagle
Successful at 1m 1f and 1m 2f on good and heavy ground. Third of 5 behind Delacroix beaten 7l at 7-1 on his latest outing in the Group 3 Cashel Palace Hotel Derby Trial Stakes at Leopardstown over 1m 2f (good) last month. Official BHA Rating 109
17 THE LION IN WINTER (IRE) (23) 9-2 (19)
B c Sea The Stars (IRE) - What A Home (IRE) (Lope de Vega (IRE))
Owner Mr M. Tabor, D. Smith & Mrs John Magnier
Trainer Aidan O’Brien, Ireland
Breeder Sunderland Holding Inc.
Form 11-6 BF
ROYAL BLUE, ORANGE disc, striped sleeves and cap.
Colin Keane
Successful twice at 7f on good to firm and good ground. Finished 4l behind Pride Of Arras when sixth of 11 at 8-11fav on his latest outing in the Group 2 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai Dante Stakes at York over 1m 2f (good to firm) last month STEWARDS NOTE: Following its run on 15/5/2025 it was reported that the horse suffered interference 1f out. Official BHA Rating 117
18 TORNADO ALERT (IRE) (35) 9-2 (11)
B c Too Darn Hot - Bint Almatar (USA) (Kingmambo (USA))
Owner Godolphin
Trainer Saeed bin Suroor, Newmarket
Breeder Godolphin
Groom Walter Lynch
ROYAL BLUE, WHITE cap.
Form 31-4
Sponsored by Emirates Fly Better
A winner at 1m on the all-weather. Finished 4 1/2l behind Ruling Court when fourth of 11 at 50-1 on his latest outing in the Group 1 Betfred 2000 Guineas Stakes at Newmarket over 1m (good) last month. Official BHA Rating 112
19 TUSCAN HILLS (FR) (23) 9-2 (6)
B c Night of Thunder (IRE) - Taqleed (Sea The Stars (IRE))
Owner Amo Racing Limited
Trainer Raphael Freire, Newmarket
Breeder Mr John Richard Wheeler
VIOLET, WHITE quartered cap.
Form 11-0 Sponsored by Sports Invest UK Ltd
Successful twice at 1m on good and soft ground. Beaten 4 1/2l behind Pride Of Arras at 22-1 when seventh of 11 on his latest outing in the Group 2 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai Dante Stakes at York over 1m 2f (good to firm) last month. Official BHA Rating 105
RESULT
1st 2nd Distance 3rd 4th Time
Oisin Murphy
David Egan
16. TENNESSEE STUD (IRE)
(Breeder - Mrs Ann Marie O'Brien)
17. THE LION IN WINTER (IRE)
(Breeder - Sunderland Holding Inc)
18. TORNADO ALERT (IRE)
(Breeder - Godolphin)
19.
TUSCAN
HILLS (FR)
(Breeder - John Richard Wheeler)
Iffraaj (GB)
Wootton Bassett (GB)
Balladonia (GB)
Sadler's Wells (USA)
In My Dreams (IRE)
Offshore Boom
Cape Cross (IRE)
Sea The Stars (IRE)
What A Home (IRE)
Urban Sea (USA)
Lope de Vega (IRE)
Inchmahome (GB)
Dubawi (IRE)
Too Darn Hot (GB)
Bint Almatar (USA)
Dar Re Mi (GB)
Kingmambo (USA)
Firth of Lorne (IRE)
Dubawi (IRE)
Night of Thunder (IRE)
Zafonic (USA)
Pastorale (GB)
Primo Dominie
Susquehanna Days (USA)
Northern Dancer
Fairy Bridge (USA)
Be My Guest (USA)
Push A Button
Green Desert (USA)
Park Appeal
Miswaki (USA)
Allegretta
Shamardal (USA)
LadyVettori (GB)
Galileo (IRE)
Inchmurrin
Dubai Millennium (GB)
Zomaradah (GB)
Singspiel (IRE)
Darara
Mr Prospector (USA)
Miesque (USA)
Danehill (USA)
Kerrera
Dubai Millennium (GB)
Zomaradah (GB)
Galileo (IRE)
Forest Storm (GB)
Sea The Stars (IRE)
Taqleed (GB)
PHOTO FINISHES
Eswarah (GB)
Quiet Storm (IRE)
Cape Cross (IRE)
Urban Sea (USA)
Unfuwain (USA)
Midway Lady (USA)
The photo-finish camera decided the Derby result for the first time in 1949 when Nimbus landed the spoils by a head from French raider Amour Drake.
S I X T H RA CE 4 . 1 5
The Encore Lifestyle Northern Dancer Handicap Stakes (GBBPlus Race) (Class 2)
ONE MILE about FOUR FURLONGS (12f abt 6yds) for four yrs old and upwards
Total prize fund £75000
For conditions of this race see page 80
EPSOM RACE SUMMARY
Four-year-olds have had a real stranglehold on this contest in recent years, winning six of the seven previous renewals - and the progressive CANDYMAN STAN may well continue that trend. Andrew Balding's charge disappointed on soft ground in September but has not looked back since. Impressive on his return at Brighton in April before following up at Lingfield latest, a further 5lb rise in the handicap could still underestimate him. First-time cheekpieces could elicit further improvement within November Handicap fifth Valvano, who made a pleasing return at Goodwood last time. Asgard's Captain (winner) and Small Fry (third) clashed over C&D in April, with the pair likely to be closely matched once again.
WIN: CANDYMAN STAN
EACH-WAY: Valvano
PRESENTATION
Encore Lifestyle is kindly awarding £100 to the racing groom responsible for the best turned out horse in this race, as well as a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey.
RACE FACTS
LEADING COURSE TRAINER (20-25):
A Balding (18 wins from 105 runners, 17%) runs CANDYMAN STAN
TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): R Hannon (12 wins from 45 runners, 27%) runs GREAT BEDWYN
STALLS: CENTRE
NUMBER OF DECLARED RUNNERS 17
Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn first time by No. 2, 7. Blinkers worn by No. 11. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 3, 15, 16, 17. Running for the first time since Gelding No. 1.
Probable S.P.’s - 11-2 Valvano (IRE), 8-1 Sam Hawkens (IRE), Small Fry (IRE), 10-1 Asgard’s Captain (IRE), Candyman Stan (GB), 12-1 Great Bedwyn (GB), 16-1 Fouroneohfever (IRE), Vice President (IRE), 18-1 Night Breeze (IRE), Dream Harder (IRE), Beauld As Brass (GB), 22-1 Maxi King (IRE), Something (GB), 25-1 Miller Spirit (IRE), 40-1 Galactic Charm (GB), 66-1 Torcello (IRE), 80-1 Paradoxical (IRE)
LAST YEAR’S WINNER RELENTLESS VOYAGER
RIDDEN BY: Oisin Murphy
OWNED BY: Relentless Dreamers Racing & Partner
TRAINED BY: Andrew Balding | S/P 7-1 (14 ran)
1 MAXI KING (IRE) (210)
B g Belardo (IRE) - Pardoven (IRE) (Clodovil (IRE))
VIOLET, WHITE quartered cap. He has won three times from 1m 2f to 1m 4f on good and heavy ground. Beaten 4 1/2l behind Lord Melbourne at 33-1 when eighth of 23 on his latest outing at Doncaster over 1m 4f (soft) in November last year. Official BHA Rating 100
2
VALVANO (IRE) (35)
Ch g Night of Thunder (IRE) - Vuela (Duke of Marmalade (IRE))
Owner Valmont
Trainer Ralph Beckett, Kimpton Down Breeder Farm Cove Thoroughbreds Ltd
4 9-6 (7)
Form 1/2335-4 Sponsored by R M Beckett Ltd
WHITE, ROYAL BLUE sleeves, PINK armlets, PINK cap. A winner at 1m on heavy ground. Finished 4 1/2l behind Sir Lowry’s Pass when fourth of 11 at 4-1 on his latest outing at Goodwood over 1m 2f (good) last month. He is wearing cheekpieces for the first time. Official BHA Rating 97
3 MILLER SPIRIT (IRE) (14)
B g Australia - Esprit de Tauber (IRE) (Zoffany (IRE))
Owner Paul Reed
Trainer Gary & Josh Moore, Horsham
Breeder Mr Paul & Mrs Catherine Reed
5 9-3 (6)
Form 1116-06 CD Sponsored by KM Elite Products Ltd
EMERALD GREEN and BLACK diamonds, EMERALD GREEN sleeves and cap.
Winner of six races from 1m 2f to 1m 6f on ground varying from good to heavy; has also won a hurdle in November last year. Finished 7l behind French Master when sixth of 8 at 28-1 on his latest outing at Goodwood over 1m 6f (good) last month. Official BHA Rating 94
4 GREAT BEDWYN (GB) (24)
5 9-0 (11)
B g Showcasing - Mistress Quickly (IRE) (Mastercraftsman (IRE))
Owner Michael Kerr-Dineen & Martin Hughes
Trainer Richard Hannon, Marlborough
Breeder Mrs M. E. Slade
PURPLE, WHITE diamonds on sleeves, check cap.
Form 36002-1 D
He has won four times from 1m 2f to 1m 4f on good to firm and good ground and on the all-weather. A winner at 9-2 at York over 1m 4f (good to firm) on his latest outing last month, beating Maghlaak by a neck. Official BHA Rating 91
5
ASGARD’S CAPTAIN (IRE)
(46) 5 9-0 (10)
B g Make Believe - Twiggy’s Girl (IRE) (Manduro (GER))
Owner Quest Thoroughbreds - Asgard’s Captain
Trainer Dylan Cunha, Newmarket
Breeder Miss Eileen Farrelly
Form 342601 CD
BLACK, YELLOW seams, YELLOW and BLACK striped sleeves, BLACK and YELLOW striped cap. Has won eight races from 1m to 1m 4f on good ground and on the all-weather. A winner at 13-2 over this course and distance (good) on his latest outing in April, beating Master Builder by 4 1/2l. Official BHA Rating 91
6 CANDYMAN STAN (GB) (28)
4 8-13 (5)
B g Study of Man (IRE) - Karamela (IRE) (Mastercraftsman (IRE))
Owner Sandie & David Newton
Trainer Andrew Balding, Kingsclere
Breeder Miss K. Rausing
Form 4310-11 D
MAUVE, WHITE chevron, PURPLE sleeves. He has won three times at 1m 4f on good to firm ground and on the all-weather. Won on his latest outing when 6-5fav at Lingfield over 1m 4f (good to firm) last month, beating Charlie’s Choice by 1 1/2l. Has also won at Brighton this season. Official BHA Rating 90
David Egan
Hector Crouch
Rhys Clutterbuck
Sean Levey
Oisin Murphy
Jason Watson
7 FOURONEOHFEVER (IRE) (22) 4 8-12 (4)
B g Too Darn Hot - Daintily Done (Cacique (IRE))
Owner Maranto Manor 1
Trainer George Boughey, Newmarket Breeder E. Cantillon / Tinnakill / J. Cantillon
Form 400-033 D BF
RED, WHITE hoops, ROYAL BLUE sleeves, WHITE stars and cap.
He has won three times from 1m 2f to 1m 4f on good and good to soft ground and on the all-weather.
Third of 5 behind Lavender Hill Mob beaten 4 1/2l at 15-8fav on his latest outing at Newmarket over 1m 4f (good) last month. Official BHA Rating 89
8 SAM
HAWKENS
(IRE) (27) 4 8-11 (17)
B g Galileo (IRE) - Perfect Angel (IRE) (Dark Angel (IRE))
Owner Willmo Bloodstock
Trainer William Haggas, Newmarket Breeder Westerberg
BLACK, WHITE braces, RED cap.
Form 5445-41 D
Successful twice at 1m 4f on heavy ground and on the all-weather. A winner at 11-2 at Newcastle over 1m 4f on his latest outing last month, beating Steel Tiger by 1 3/4l. Official BHA Rating 88
9 NIGHT BREEZE (IRE) (28)
5 8-10 (12)
B g New Approach (IRE) - Right Direction (IRE) (Cape Cross (IRE))
Owner Midtech 2
Trainer Ian Williams, Alvechurch Breeder Godolphin
Form 1324-41 D
Sponsored by Mid-Tech (Air Products) Ltd
LIGHT BLUE and RED (quartered), hooped sleeves, WHITE cap. He has won four times from 1m 3f to 1m 4f on ground varying from good to firm to good to soft. A winner at 16-1 at Ascot over 1m 4f (good to firm) on his latest outing last month, beating Ocean Of Dreams by 4l. Official BHA Rating 87
10
DREAM HARDER (IRE) (7)
B g Muhaarar - Silent Thoughts (IRE) (Galileo (IRE))
Owner Mr Paul Farrell
Trainer Ian Williams, Alvechurch Breeder Barronstown Stud
RED, WHITE seams, WHITE sleeves, RED stars, RED cap.
6 8-8 (8)
Form 633001 D
Winner of six races from 1m 1f to 1m 4f on good and soft ground and on the all-weather. A winner at 5-1 at Chester over 1m 4f (good) on his latest outing last month, beating Charmaine by 1/2l.
Official BHA Rating 85
11 TORCELLO (IRE) (225)
Ch g Born To Sea (IRE) - Islandagore (IRE) (Indian Ridge)
BLACK and LIGHT BLUE check, BLACK sleeves, LIGHT BLUE armlets, RED cap. Has won ten races from 1m 2f to 1m 4f on ground varying from good to heavy; has also won a hurdle. Well beaten at 18-1 behind Miller Spirit when seventh of 11 on his latest outing at Newbury over 1m 4f (heavy) in October last year. Official BHA Rating 84
12 VICE PRESIDENT (IRE) (28)
B g Galileo (IRE) - Words (IRE) (Dansili)
Owner One More Moment of Madness
Trainer Richard Hughes, Upper Lambourn
Breeder Coolmore
4 8-7 (1)
Form 321-64
Sponsored by Agetur (UK) Ltd
PINK, LIGHT BLUE cross belts and armlets, LIGHT BLUE and PINK quartered cap. A winner at 1m 2f on good ground. Finished 3 1/2l behind Candyman Stan when fourth of 5 at 11-4 on his latest outing at Lingfield over 1m 4f (good to firm) last month. Official BHA Rating 84
Billy Loughnane
Tom Marquand
David Probert
Luke Morris
Joe Leavy
Warren Fentiman (5)
13
BEAULD AS BRASS
(GB) (22) 5 8-7 (15)
B g Brazen Beau (AUS) - Camelopardalis (Tobougg (IRE))
Owner Greens Racing
Trainer George Baker, Epsom Breeder Miss D. F. Fleming
DARK GREEN, DARK GREEN and BEIGE diabolo on sleeves.
Form 2-11113 D
Sponsored by Vortex Shipbroking
Winner of six races from 5f to 1m 4f on firm and good to firm ground and on the all-weather. Third of 14 behind Burrito beaten 5l at 8-1 on his latest outing at Newbury over 1m 2f (good) last month. Has won 3 times this season. Official BHA Rating 84
14 SMALL FRY (IRE) (29)
B g Harzand (IRE) - Duchess of Daars (IRE) (Zoffany (IRE))
Owner Ashley & Martin
Trainer Gary & Josh Moore, Horsham Breeder T. Boylan
4 8-6 (2)
Form 1122-31 CD Sponsored by KM Elite Products Ltd
DARK GREEN and ORANGE (quartered), WHITE sleeves and cap.
He has won four times from 1m 4f to 1m 6f on ground varying from good to soft and on the all-weather. Won on his latest outing when 13-8fav at Chester over 1m 4f (good) last month, beating Sportingsilvermine by 1/2l. Official BHA Rating 83
15 SOMETHING (GB) (9)
Br g Golden Horn - Calipatria (Shamardal (USA))
Owner Ellipsis
Trainer Jedd O’Keeffe, Leyburn
Breeder Highclere Stud
PINK, BROWN sleeves.
4 8-4 (16)
Form 622-461 D
Sponsored by Tote sponsorship and Jedd O'Keeffe Racing Ltd
He has won three times at 1m 4f on good to soft ground and on the all-weather. A winner at 11-2 at Ripon over 1m 4f (good to soft) on his latest outing last month, beating Free Speech by 2 1/4l. Runs from 1lb out of handicap. Official BHA Rating 80
16 GALACTIC CHARM (GB) (227)
4 8-4 (9)
B g Sea The Moon (GER) - Gold Charm (GER) (Key of Luck (USA))
A winner at 1m 4f on good to firm ground; has also won a hurdle in December last year. Finished 2l behind Cool Party when fourth of 7 at 7-1 on his latest flat outing at Kempton over 2m in October last year. Runs from 1lb out of handicap. Official BHA Rating 80
17 PARADOXICAL (IRE) (7) 4 8-4 (3)
B g Saxon Warrior (JPN) - Love And Laughter (IRE) (Theatrical)
Owner Youlneverdrinkalone
Trainer Jennie Candlish, Leek Breeder K. and Mrs Cullen
Form 120600 D
Sponsored by PRA World Ltd
EMERALD GREEN, BLACK spots, WHITE sleeves and cap. Winner of six races from 1m 1f to 1m 4f on the all-weather. Beaten 18l behind Dream Harder at 20-1 when eighth of 10 on his latest outing at Chester over 1m 4f (good) last month. Runs from 6lb out of the handicap. Official BHA Rating 75
RESULT
1st 2nd Distance 3rd 4th Time
Harry Davies
Ashley Lewis (7)
Hollie Doyle
Laura Pearson
Kieran O’Neill
RACING POST STANDARD TIME
1m 4f 6y - 2m 35.2s
GREAT BRITISH BONUS SCHEME
The Great British Bonus (GBB) incentivises and rewards with breeding, buying and racing of British-bred fillies by paying out bonuses of up to £100,000 per filly And now with GBBPlus to further incentivise staying fillies and chasing mares, there are more reasons than ever to breed, buy and race British. Majority funded by the HBLB.
MOST SUCCESSFUL DRAW
Stall 10 - with 10 winners since 1967, most recently Masar in 2018 – is the most successful. Stalls one and five are the second most successful with six winners each. For full details, see table below.
DERBY DISTANCES
Longest – 10 lengths (1981 Shergar)
Shortest – short-head (since 1945 – 1972 Roberto, 1984 Secreto, 1998 Benny The Dip, 2006 Sir Percy)
GALLOPS OF GLORY
Racing celebrates Guineas-Derby winning horses
The Jockey Club is delighted to be partnering with The British Hat Guild and the charity Brain Tumour Research to showcase a unique fascination of hats.
Created by some of the biggest names in UK millinery, each of the 19 hats celebrate horses that have won the Guineas and gone on to win the Derby.
One or more of these unique pieces could be yours as they are being sold to raise money for Brain Tumour Research.
Search #gallopsofglory for more. All proceeds will go to Brain Tumour Research.
ONE MILE about TWO FURLONGS (10f abt 17yds) for three yrs old
Total prize fund £75000
For conditions of this race see page 80
EPSOM
RACE SUMMARY
Richard Hannon won this contest with the subsequent Group 3 winner Persica in 2024 and a bold bid is expected from MEBLESH this year. The son of Sea The Stars landed a decent maiden at Newbury last month and could prove better than his opening mark now handicapping for the first time. Last month's Ascot third The Trickster remains unexposed and is one to note back over this longer distance, while War Hawk returned the ready winner at Chester a week ago and is entitled to be in the mix.
WIN: MEBLESH
EACH-WAY: The Trickster
PRESENTATION
Hong Kong Jockey Club is kindly awarding £100 to the racing groom responsible for the best turned out horse in this race, as well as a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey.
RACE FACTS
LEADING COURSE TRAINER (20-25): A Balding (18 wins from 105 runners, 17%) runs CHARTWELL JOCK
TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): R Hannon (12 wins from 45 runners, 27%) runs MEBLESH
FANCY THAT: Balding this and
STALLS: INSIDE
NUMBER OF DECLARED RUNNERS 10
Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn first time by No. 4, 7 Tongue Strap worn by No. 9. Running for the first time since Gelding No. 3. Probable S.P.’s - 5-1 War Hawk (IRE), 11-2 Meblesh (IRE), 6-1 Chartwell Jock (GB), 13-2 Grecian Legacy (IRE), 7-1 Hornsea Bay (GB), 15-2 Cayman Dancer (GB), 8-1 The Trickster (FR), 25-1 Love Talk (IRE), 33-1 Law of Design (IRE), 40-1 Patrol (IRE)
LAST YEAR’S WINNER PERSICA (IRE)
RIDDEN BY: Sean Levey
OWNED BY: Martin Hughes & Michael Kerr-Dineen
TRAINED BY: Richard Hannon | S/P 9-2 (12 ran)
1 LOVE TALK (IRE) (28)
B f Ten Sovereigns (IRE) - Lovelocks (IRE) (High Chaparral (IRE))
Owner Nick Bradley Racing 19 and partner
Trainer Grant Tuer, Northallerton Breeder Glenvale Stud & Edgeridge Ltd
9-9 (10)
Form 64140-3
Sponsored by Tattersalls
WHITE, BLACK seams, WHITE sleeves, BLACK stars, WHITE cap, BLACK star. Successful at 6f and 7f on soft and heavy ground. Last of 3 behind Giselle beaten 11l at 10-1 on her latest outing at Lingfield over 1m 4f (good to firm) last month. Official BHA Rating 89
2 THE TRICKSTER (FR) (29)
B c Persian King (IRE) - Much Obliged (USA) (Kingmambo (USA))
Owner Eco-Power Racing
Trainer John & Sean Quinn, Malton Breeder Yeguada Centurion SLU
9-7 (5)
Form 11-23
Sponsored by JJ Quinn Racing Ltd, Eco Power Racing
EMERALD GREEN, YELLOW stars, YELLOW sleeves, EMERALD GREEN stars, YELLOW cap, EMERALD GREEN star. Successful at 1m and 1m 1f on good and soft ground. Third of 10 behind Fearnot beaten 4 1/2l at 15-2 on his latest outing at Ascot over 1m (good to firm) last month. Official BHA Rating 87
3 HORNSEA BAY (GB) (36)
Ch g New Bay - Ice Sprite (Zoffany (IRE))
Owner The Horse Watchers 3 & Robin Oliver
Trainer David O’Meara, Upper Helmsley Breeder Cheveley Park Stud Limited
BLACK, ORANGE seams and sleeves, BLACK cap.
9-7 (2)
Form 12-40 BF
A winner at 1m on good ground. Beaten 9l behind Fort George at 3-1fav when seventh of 8 on his latest outing at Newmarket over 1m (good) last month. Official BHA Rating 87
4 LAW OF DESIGN (IRE) (21)
Ch g Sottsass (FR) - Areeda (IRE) (Refuse To Bend (IRE))
Owner Manton Thoroughbreds IX
Trainer Brian Meehan, Manton Breeder Knockaney Stud
9-5 (8)
Form 310-00 Sponsored by Sirecam Europe
EMERALD GREEN, ROYAL BLUE sleeves, WHITE cap, EMERALD GREEN spots. A winner at 7f on soft ground. Well beaten at 40-1 behind Saddadd when last of 9 on his latest outing at Newbury over 1m 2f (good to firm) last month. He is wearing cheekpieces for the first time. STEWARDS NOTE: Following its run on 17/5/2025 it was reported that the horse would prefer a softer surface. Official BHA Rating 85
5 WAR HAWK (IRE) (7)
B g Mehmas (IRE) - Wrood (USA) (Invasor (ARG))
Owner Rabbah Racing
Trainer Simon & Ed Crisford, Newmarket
Breeder N. Hartery
9-4 (3)
Form 241421 D
DARK GREEN and YELLOW stripes, DARK GREEN cap. Successful twice at 1m 2f on good ground and on the all-weather. A winner at 3-1 at Chester over 1m 2f (good) on his latest outing last month, beating Magellan Cloud by 1 1/2l. Has also won at Lingfield this season. Official BHA Rating 84
6 MEBLESH (IRE) (22)
B c Sea The Stars (IRE) - Tayma (IRE) (Exceed And Excel (AUS))
Owner Sheikh Abdullah Almalek Alsabah
Trainer Richard Hannon, Marlborough Breeder Sunderland Holding Inc.
9-2 (7)
Form 341 D
WHITE, GOLD braid, GREEN sleeves, GREEN cap with GOLD tassel. A winner at 15-2 at Newbury over 1m 2f (good) on his latest outing last month, beating Altareq by a head. Official BHA Rating 82
Oliver Stammers
Jason Hart
Daniel Tudhope
Billy Loughnane
Jack Mitchell
Sean Levey
7 CHARTWELL JOCK (GB) (28)
B c Churchill (IRE) - Tiptree (IRE) (Duke of Marmalade (IRE))
Owner Mick and Janice Mariscotti
Trainer Andrew Balding, Kingsclere
Breeder Michelle Morris
WHITE, EMERALD GREEN hoops, DARK BLUE sleeves and cap.
Form 0-2123 BF
Sponsored by Kingsclere Stud
9-2 (9)
A winner at 1m 1f on the all-weather. Third of 6 behind Brindavan beaten 3l at 13-8fav on his latest outing at Ascot over 1m 2f (good to firm) last month. He is wearing cheekpieces for the first time. Official BHA Rating 82
8 PATROL (IRE) (43)
B g Dark Angel (IRE) - Laurelita (IRE) (High Chaparral (IRE))
Owner Quest Thoroughbreds - Patrol
Trainer Dylan Cunha, Newmarket
Breeder Manister House Stud
9-0 (4)
Form 1-21310
BLACK, YELLOW seams, YELLOW and BLACK striped sleeves, BLACK and YELLOW striped cap. He has won three times from 1m to 1m 4f on the all-weather. Beaten 12l behind Sing Us A Song at 33-1 when 9th of 12 on his latest outing at Sandown over 1m 2f (good) in April. Official BHA Rating 80
9 GRECIAN LEGACY (IRE) (36)
B g Magna Grecia (IRE) - Eleanor Roosevelt (IRE) (Dalakhani (IRE))
Owner Capture The Moment XIII
Trainer Daniel & Claire Kubler, Lambourn Breeder Edgeridge Ltd
9-0 (6)
Form 2224-1 D Sponsored by Tattersalls
YELLOW, ROYAL BLUE epaulets, ROYAL BLUE and YELLOW chevrons on sleeves, RED cap. A winner at 9-2 at Goodwood over 1m 2f (good) on his latest outing last month, beating Northwest Passage by 1 1/2l. Official BHA Rating 80
10 CAYMAN DANCER (GB) (18)
B c Sea The Moon (GER) - Cay Dancer (Danehill Dancer (IRE))
Owner Kingsley Park Owners Club
Trainer Charlie Johnston, Middleham Breeder W. & R. Barnett Ltd
8-13 (1)
Form 312 D BF Sponsored by Johnston Racing Ltd
ROYAL BLUE, LIGHT GREEN epaulets. A winner at 1m 2f on the all-weather. Beaten by Percy’s Daydream when second of 5 at 4-11fav on his latest outing at Lingfield over 1m 2f (good to firm) last month. Official BHA Rating 79
RESULT
RACING POST STANDARD TIME
GREAT BRITISH BONUS SCHEME
The Great British Bonus (GBB) incentivises and rewards with breeding, buying and racing of British-bred fillies by paying out bonuses of up to £100,000 per filly. And now with GBBPlus to further incentivise staying fillies and chasing mares, there are more reasons than ever to breed, buy and race British. Majority funded by the HBLB.
Oisin Murphy
David Egan
Hollie Doyle
Richard Kingscote
E I G H T H RA CE 5 . 40
The JRA Tokyo Trophy Handicap Stakes (Class 2)
about SIX FURLONGS (6f abt 3yds) for four yrs old and upwards
Total prize fund £75000
For conditions of this race see page 80
EPSOM RACE SUMMARY
GET IT returned the surprise winner at Ascot last month, but there no fluke about it. He made all to break the track record and the runner-up has subsequently franked the form. George Baker's sprinter looks worth sticking with in his current frame of mind, despite a 7lb hike. A recent winner at Windsor, Circe arrives seeking a hat-trick and could prove competitive once again, while Strike Red would appreciate any cut in the ground and is preferred to the Kempton winner Drama.
WIN: GET IT
EACH-WAY: Circe
PRESENTATION
The JRA is kindly awarding £100 to the racing groom responsible for the best turned out horse in this race, as well as a memento to the winning owner, trainer and jockey.
RACE FACTS
LEADING COURSE TRAINER (20-25): I Williams (8 wins from 48 runners, 17%) runs PUREST TIME
TRAINER-IN-FORM (LAST 14 DAYS): R Hannon (12 wins from 45 runners, 27%) runs CIRCE
FANCY THAT: Williams this and
STALLS: OUTSIDE
NUMBER OF DECLARED RUNNERS 13
Blinkers worn by No. 8. Visor worn by No. 11. Blinkers, Tongue Strap worn by No. 4. Sheepskin Cheek Pieces worn by No. 13.
Probable S.P.’s - 5-1 Get It (GB), Circe (IRE), 13-2 Sondad (GB), 7-1 Eye of Dubai (GB), 9-1 Drama (GB), 11-1 Rousing Encore (IRE), 14-1 Intervention (GB), 16-1 Strike Red (IRE), 22-1 Badri (GB), 28-1 Orne (IRE), Solar Aclaim (IRE), 50-1 Purest Time (GB), Twilight Jet (IRE)
LAST YEAR’S WINNER MISTY GREY (IRE)
RIDDEN BY: Rossa Ryan
OWNED BY: Barbara & Alick Richmond
TRAINED BY: David O’Meara | S/P 7-1 (13 ran)
1 GET IT (GB) (29) 7 9-9 (6)
B g Twilight Son - Pine Ridge (Elusive City (USA))
Owner MyRacehorse & Partners
Trainer George Baker, Epsom Breeder Wood Hall Stud
Form 004641 CD
Sponsored by Vortex Shipbroking
BLACK, WHITE horses head, two WHITE chevrons on sleeves, WHITE cap.
Has won eight races from 5f to 6f on good to firm and good ground and on the all-weather. A winner at 22-1 at Ascot over 6f (good to firm) on his latest outing last month, beating Kodi Lion by 2l.
Official BHA Rating 100
2 STRIKE RED (IRE) (27) 7 9-7 (9)
B g Dark Angel (IRE) - Capulet Monteque (IRE) (Camacho)
Owner Mr Peter Timmins
Trainer Richard Fahey, Malton Breeder Yeomanstown Stud
Form 010-625 D
Sponsored by Tote
RED, ROYAL BLUE cross belts, RED sleeves, LIGHT BLUE diamonds, LIGHT BLUE and RED check cap. Has won eight races at 6f on ground varying from good to soft and on the all-weather. Finished 2 1/2l behind Ferrous when fifth of 13 at 11-1 on his latest outing at Newcastle over 6f last month.
Official BHA Rating 98
3 PUREST TIME (GB) (7)
B g Time Test - Purest (Shamardal (USA))
Owner Mr M. Greaves
Trainer Ian Williams, Alvechurch Breeder Mr & Mrs N. Welby
5 9-4 (4)
Form 04003-0 D
Sponsored by Rc UK Land Ventures Limited
GREY, RED sleeves, GREY stars, WHITE and RED striped cap. He has won three times from 5f to 6f on good and good to soft ground. Beaten 7l behind Myal at 125-1 when 11th of 13 on his latest outing at Chester over 7f (good) last month. Official BHA Rating 95
4
DRAMA
(GB) (17) 4 9-3 (5)
B g Havana Grey - Reedanjas (IRE) (Sir Prancealot (IRE))
Owner Highclere T’Bred Racing - Michelangelo
Trainer James Ferguson, Newmarket
Breeder Whitsbury Manor Stud
LIGHT BLUE, DARK BLUE armlets, DARK BLUE cap.
Form 510-031 D
Sponsored by Highclere Thoroughbred Racing Ltd
He has won four times at 6f on good ground and on the all-weather. Won on his latest outing when 11-8fav at Kempton over 6f last month, beating Tan Rapido by 1 1/2l. Official BHA Rating 94
5 TWILIGHT JET (IRE) (19)
B g Twilight Son - My Lucky Liz (IRE) (Exceed And Excel (AUS))
Owner May, Robinson, Mildean, Field, Trenchard
Trainer Jim & Suzi Best, Lewes
Breeder Tom Radley
BEIGE, BLACK triple diamond and diamond on cap.
6 9-2 (10)
Form 00000-0 D
He has won four times from 5f to 6f on ground varying from good to yielding. Beaten 12l behind Regal Envoy at 40-1 when last of 8 on his latest outing at Windsor over 5f (good to firm) last month.
Official BHA Rating 93
6 CIRCE (IRE) (12)
B f Kodiac - Northeast Moon (IRE) (Sea The Moon (GER))
Owner Pineapple Stud and Miss C. Douglas
Trainer Richard Hannon, Marlborough
Breeder McCracken Farms
4 9-0 (8)
Form 52-4211 D
Sponsored by Rhiannon Properties Ltd
PINK, DARK BLUE stars, DARK BLUE and PINK diabolo on sleeves, PINK cap, DARK BLUE star. She has won four times from 6f to 1m on ground varying from good to firm to soft. A winner at 9-4 at Windsor over 6f (good to firm) on her latest outing last month, beating Change Sings by a short head. Has also won at Newmarket this season. Official BHA Rating 91
Pat Cosgrave
Billy Garritty
David Probert
Tom Marquand
Joe Leavy
Sean Levey
7 EYE OF DUBAI (GB) (69) 4 8-13 (7)
B g Havana Grey - Lily Carstairs (Orpen (USA))
Owner WeDo Business & Mr S. Radymski
Trainer John & Sean Quinn, Malton
Breeder Mr R. S. Hoskins
Form 31331-0 D Sponsored by JJ Quinn Racing Ltd, Wedo Business Services Ltd
RED and ROYAL BLUE check, quartered cap. He has won three times from 6f to 7f on soft and heavy ground. Beaten 7l behind Dark Thirty at 7-1 when 17th of 19 on his latest outing at Doncaster over 6f (good) in March. Official BHA Rating 90
8 ORNE (IRE) (35) 4 8-13 (12)
B g Acclamation - Pellucid (Excelebration (IRE))
Owner Mrs C. Brittain
Trainer Antony Brittain, Warthill
Breeder Rathbarry Stud
Form 060-060
GREY, YELLOW striped sleeves and cap. Successful twice at 7f on heavy ground and on the all-weather. Beaten 7l behind More Thunder at 22-1 when last of 13 on his latest outing at Newmarket over 6f (good) last month. Having his first run for a new stable today, previously with John & Thady Gosden. Official BHA Rating 90
9 BADRI (GB) (27)
B g Dark Angel (IRE) - Penny Drops (Invincible Spirit (IRE))
Owner RJH Ltd and Mr D Padgett
Trainer Michael Herrington, Willoughton
Breeder Mr & Mrs G. Middlebrook
BLACK, ORANGE cross belts, ORANGE cap.
8 8-11 (1)
Form 126050 CD
Has won ten races from 5f to 7f on ground varying from good to firm to good to soft and on the all-weather. Beaten 5l behind Ferrous at 16-1 when 10th of 13 on his latest outing at Newcastle over 6f last month. Official BHA Rating 88
10 ROUSING ENCORE (IRE) (24)
B g Acclamation - Jolie Chanson (FR) (Mount Nelson)
Owner Mr Paul K. Spencer
Trainer Ruth Carr, Stillington
Breeder Hunting Hill Stud
LIGHT BLUE, PURPLE Cross of Lorraine, armlets and cap.
5 8-10 (11)
Form 335-561 D
Sponsored by TOG 24, William Hill
Winner of five races from 5f to 6f on good to firm and good ground and on the all-weather. A winner at 22-1 at York over 6f (good to firm) on his latest outing last month, beating Dark Thirty by 1 1/4l.
Official BHA Rating 87
11 SONDAD (GB) (28)
B g Washington DC (IRE) - Penny Garcia (Indesatchel (IRE))
Owner G Routledge Racing
Trainer Michael & David Easterby, Sheriff Hutton
Breeder Mr J. Bowers
MAROON and YELLOW stripes, chevrons on sleeves.
4 8-8 (13)
Form 110-021 D
He has won three times at 6f on good to firm and good to soft ground and on the all-weather. A winner at 6-1 at Ascot over 6f (good to firm) on his latest outing last month, beating Strike by 2 1/4l.
Official BHA Rating 85
12 SOLAR ACLAIM (IRE) (58)
Br g Aclaim (IRE) - Alliseeisnibras (IRE) (Slade Power (IRE))
Owner Nick Bradley Racing 26 & Julie Camacho
Trainer Julie Camacho, Malton
Breeder Rathasker Stud
4 8-7 (3)
Form 13634-0 D
Sponsored by Tattersalls, David Roberts & Partners Insurance Brokers Ltd
WHITE, BLACK seams, WHITE sleeves, BLACK stars, WHITE cap, BLACK star.
He has won three times from 5f to 6f on good to soft and heavy ground. Beaten 6l behind The Turpinator at 22-1 when 11th of 13 on his latest outing at Newcastle over 6f in April. Official BHA Rating 84
Jason Hart
Cam Hardie
Hollie Doyle
James Sullivan
Joanna Mason
Patrick McGettigan (7)
13 INTERVENTION (GB) (11)
8 8-4 (2)
B g Swiss Spirit - Lady Lube Rye (IRE) (Catcher In The Rye (IRE))
Owner The Horse Watchers 8
Trainer Michael Appleby, Oakham
Breeder D. & S. L. Tanker Transport Ltd
BLACK, ORANGE seams and sleeves, BLACK cap.
Form 143002 D Sponsored by Timeform
Has won 12 races from 6f to 7f on good to firm ground and on the all-weather. Beaten 1l by Secret Strength when second of 5 at 3-1 on his latest outing at Brighton over 7f (good to soft) last month. Official BHA Rating 81
RESULT
RACING POST STANDARD TIME
6f 3y - 1m 7.8s
Luke Morris
TODAY’S OFFICIALS
Epsom Downs Racecourse Committee
Brian Finch (Chair)
Clare Balding CBE
Alex Frost
Andy Hornby
Julie Kapsalis
Katie Kershaw
Simon Philip
Rt. Hon Sir Hugh Robertson
General Manager
Jim Allen
Head of Racing & Clerk of the Course
Andrew Cooper
Assistant Clerks of the Course
Daniel Cooper
Alice Cosgrove
Operations Manager
Michael Drake
Communications Manager
Emma Blackburn
Head of Marketing
Sophie Burke
Estates Manager
Ashley Critcher
Owners and Trainers Liaison Manager
Amy Bone
Commentator
Simon Holt
Betting Ring Managers
Andrew Boardley, Neil Pateman, Vicki Moore, Sarah Woodborne, Cliff Morrissey, Grant Newman
Safeguarding Leads
Jim Allen and Andrew Cooper
Stewards
Shaun Parker (Chief Steward)
Sarah Ellison (Stewards Panel Chair)
Steve Drowne, Ben Ford, Kate Smith, Gwen Thomas, Richard Westropp Starters
Robert Supple
Sam Avis
James Stenning Handicappers
Dominic Gardiner-Hill
Mark Olley
Judges
David Hicks
Paul Champion
Clerk Of The Scales
Graham Ford
Chris Hill
Veterinary Officers
Sally Taylor
Amy Hawthorn
Stuart Thorne
Jocelyn Habershon-Butcher
Veterinary Surgeons
Simon Knapp, C.V.O., B.Sc., B.VetMed.,M.R.C.V.S.
Clive Hamblin, B.Vet.Med., M.R.C.V.S.
Jamie Knapp, B.V.M.S., M.R.C.V.S.
Luke Hepburn, B.Sc., BVSc, M.R.C.V.S.
Medical Officers
Dr Lucy Free, Dr Rob Cullen, Dr Peter Johnson, Dr Mark Gorvin, Dr Graeme Robertson, Dr Rizwan Ghani
Equine Welfare and Integrity Officers
Darren Stone, Peter Double, Christine Hannaford, Vince McKevitt, Suzanne Feltham, Carol Leggett, Helena Warbrick, Sarah Collins
RACECONDITIONS
First Race - 1.00 THE PRINCESS ELIZABETH STAKES (CLASS 1) (Sponsored by ODDSCHECKER) (Group 3)
Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £56710 to the winning horse
The second to receive £21500, the third £10760, the fourth £5360, the fifth £2690 and the sixth £1350. for three yrs old and upwards fillies and mares only. Enter by noon, June 2nd and pay £1000 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. June 5th. Weights: 3-y-o 8st 10lb; 4-y-o and up 9st 8lb Penalties, after August 31st, 2024, a winner of a Group 3 race 3lb Of a Group 2 race 5lb Of a Group 1 race 7lb. ODDSCHECKER has generously sponsored this race. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of ODDSCHECKER. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. 15 entries at £1000. - Closed June 2nd, 2025. Owners Prize Money. Winner £44560; Second £18290; Third £9150;
Fourth £4570; Fifth £2290; Sixth £1140. (Penalty Value £56710) A SS
SEE PAGE 19 FOR THIS RACE.
Second Race - 1.35 THE BETFRED DIOMED STAKES (CLASS 1) (Group 3)
Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £56710 to the winning horse The second to receive £21500, the third £10760, the fourth £5360, the fifth £2690 and the sixth £1350. for three yrs old and upwards. Enter by noon, June 2nd and pay £1000 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. June 5th. Weights: 3-y-o colts and geldings 8st 10lb; fillies 8st 7lb 4-y-o and up colts and geldings 9st 8lb; fillies 9st 5lb Penalties, after August 31st, 2024, a winner of a Group 3 race 3lb Of a Group 2 race 5lb Of a Group 1 race 7lb. BETFRED has generously sponsored this race. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of BETFRED. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. 10 entries at £1000. - Closed June 2nd, 2025. Owners Prize Money. Winner £44560; Second £18290; Third £9150; Fourth £4570; Fifth £2290; Sixth £1140. (Penalty Value £56710) A SS
SEE PAGE 25 FOR THIS RACE.
Third Race - 2.10 THE BETFRED 3YO “DASH” HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 3)
Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £38655 to the winning horse The second to receive £18127, the third £9067, the fourth £4530, the fifth £2265 and the sixth £1132. for three yrs old only, Rated 0-95 (also open to such horses rated 96 and 97 - see Standard Conditions). Enter by noon, June 2nd and pay £375 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. June 5th. Lowest weight 8st 2lb; Highest weight 9st 9lb Penalties, after May 31st, 2025, for each race won 6lb. BETFRED has generously sponsored this race. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of BETFRED. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. PLEASE NOTE: In accordance with the provisions of paragraph 9 of the Weights and Handicapping Code a horse must have run three times or more in order to qualify to run in this race. 21 entries at £375. - Closed June 2nd, 2025. Owners Prize Money. Winner £30473; Second £15240; Third £7620; Fourth £3810; Fifth £1905; Sixth £953. (Penalty Value £38655) SS SEE PAGE 31 FOR THIS RACE.
Fourth Race - 2.45 THE ASTON MARTIN “DASH” HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 2) (Heritage Handicap)
Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £50960 to the winning horse The second to receive £23890, the third £11960, the fourth £5970, the fifth £2990, the sixth £1480, the seventh £750 and the eighth £370. for three yrs old and upwards. Enter by noon, June 2nd and pay £500 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. June 5th. Lowest weight 8st 2lb; Highest weight 9st 12lb Penalties, after May 31st, 2025, a winner of a race 4lb Of 2 races 7lb NOTE: Any horse rated above 110 shall initially be treated as having that rating and the highest weight allotted shall be 9st 12lb. Subsequently, the excess over 110 in any rating shall be allotted to that horse without limitation to the highest weight to be carried.. ASTON MARTIN has generously sponsored this race. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of ASTON MARTIN. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. PLEASE NOTE: In accordance with the provisions of paragraph 9 of the Weights and Handicapping Code a horse must have run three times or more in order to qualify to run in this race. 23 entries at £500. - Closed June 2nd, 2025. Owners Prize Money.
Winner £40160; Second £20080; Third £10040; Fourth £5020; Fifth £2510; Sixth £1250; Seventh £630; Eighth £310. (Penalty Value £50960) SS SEE PAGE 37 FOR THIS RACE.
Fifth Race - 3.30 THE BETFRED DERBY (In Honour of His Highness Aga Khan IV) (CLASS 1) (Group 1) Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £909628 to the winning horse The second to receive £344860, the third £172590, the fourth £85974, the fifth £43147 and the sixth £21654. for three yrs old colts and fillies only. Enter by noon, February 25th and pay £3000 stake, Second Entry by noon, April 23rd and pay £12000 stake, Scratch by noon, May 6th or pay £4000, Scratch by noon, May 20th or pay £4000, Second Entries Scratch by noon, May 20th or pay £4000, Confirm by noon, June 2nd and pay £3000, Supplementary Entry by noon, June 2nd and pay £75000 stake, Declare by 10.00 a.m. June 4th. Weights: Colts 9st 2lb; fillies 8st 13lb NOTE: Horses will only be eligible to run in this race provided that they have a current BHA Handicap Rating of 80 or higher at midday of the confirmation stage. Horses which do not qualify for a rating may also be eligible providing the BHA Handicapper is satisfied that the horse’s racecourse performances up to and including 31 May merit a provisional assessment of 80 or higher. Horses which have not run will not be eligible.. BETFRED has generously sponsored this race. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of BETFRED. The sponsorship payment of £500 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. The winning horse in The Derby ‘Wild Card’ EBF Conditions Stakes at Epsom on 29 September 2024 and in the Blue Riband Trial, run at the Spring Meeting at Epsom Downs on 22 April 2025, if not a gelding or already entered, will receive an automatic entry to this race on the proviso that, should the horse remain in The Derby after the subsequent scratching stages on 6 May and 20 May, and confirmation stage on 2 June, the owner will be liable to meet the corresponding yearling payments of £4000, £4000 and £3000 respectively. In the event of a dead-heat in either race, both horses will receive an automatic entry to The Betfred Derby. This race also forms part of the 2025 Churchill Downs ‘Wild Card’ Scheme. For full details see the notice posted on www2.racingadmin.co.uk ‘“Churchill Downs ‘Wild Card’ Scheme”. ELIMINATION: If elimination is necessary from this race, the elimination sequence will be determined by the Eliminations and Balloting Procedures section of the Race Administration Code. This race will be restricted to 20 runners plus two reserves. The two reserves will be nominated as R21 and R22. (Please refer to the Special Notice published in The Racing Calendar and on the BHA’s Racing Administration Internet site www2.racingadmin.co.uk). The British Horseracing Authority has modified paragraphs 3, 5, 6, 7, 15 and 16 of the Race Entry Code for the purposes of this Race. SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS APPLY TO THE DRAW FOR THIS RACE Details of the draw will be published in the Racing Calendar and on www2racingadmin.co.uk THERE WILL BE A PARADE FOR THIS RACE. Runners will be paraded in the manner requested by the Managing Executive on the day. (No confirmation of entry is required for Supplementary entries). Owners and trainers should note that the declaration date for 2025 Betfred Derby (Group 1) at Epsom Downs on Saturday, 7 June has been brought forward by 24 hours (no other races on the card will be affected by this change). Therefore, declarations must be made by 10am, Wednesday, 4 June, with the deadline for jockey declarations similarly brought forward and which must be made by 1pm on the same day. A public draw by random ballot for stalls positions will take place in Epsom Town Centre at approximately 11am on Wednesday, 4 June. Please note, trainers or their representatives are not required to attend the draw. The remainder of the card will retain the 48-hour declaration deadline. 93 entries, 48 at £3000, 18 at £7000, 0 at £12000, 7 at £11000, 17 at £14000, 1 at £19000, 2 at £75000. - Closed February 25th, 2025. Owners Prize Money. Winner £714742; Second £293372; Third £146766; Fourth £73303; Fifth £36732; Sixth £18286. (Penalty Value £909628.40) A SS SEE PAGE 51 FOR THIS RACE.
Sixth Race - 4.15 THE ENCORE LIFESTYLE NORTHERN DANCER HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 2) (GBBPLUS RACE)
Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £38655 to the winning horse The second to receive £18127, the third £9067, the fourth £4530, the fifth £2265 and the sixth £1132. for four yrs old and upwards, Rated 86-105 (also open to such horses rated 106 and 107; such horses rated 85 and below are also eligible - see Standard Conditions). £375 stake if the horse is rated 86 or higher, or £75 stake if the horse is rated 85 or lower with £300 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. June 5th. Lowest weight 8st 4lb; Highest weight 9st 9lb Penalties, after May 31st, 2025, for each race won 4yo to 6yo 5lb; 7yo and up 4lb. ENCORE LIFESTYLE has generously sponsored this race. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of ENCORE LIFESTYLE. The sponsorship payment of £250 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. The BHA has given permission for the winning rider in this year’s Derby to give up his/her ride in this race, if he/she so wishes.
PLEASE NOTE: In accordance with the provisions of paragraph 9 of the Weights and Handicapping Code a horse must have run three times or more in order to qualify to run in this race. 19 entries, 1 at £75 and 18 at £375. - Closed June 2nd, 2025. Owners Prize Money. Winner £30473; Second £15240; Third £7620; Fourth £3810; Fifth £1905; Sixth £953. (Penalty Value £38655) SS SEE PAGE 61 FOR THIS RACE.
Seventh Race - 5.00 THE HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB WORLD POOL LESTER PIGGOTT HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 2) (GBBPLUS RACE)
Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £38655 to the winning horse The second to receive £18127, the third £9067, the fourth £4530, the fifth £2265 and the sixth £1132. for three yrs old only, Rated 0-100 (also open to such horses rated 101 and 102; such horses rated 75 and below are also eligible - see Standard Conditions). £375 stake if the horse is rated 76 or higher, or £75 stake if the horse is rated 75 or lower with £300 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. June 5th. Lowest weight 8st 2lb; Highest weight 9st 9lb Penalties, after May 31st, 2025, for each race won 6lb. HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB has generously sponsored this race. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of HONG KONG JOCKEY CLUB. The sponsorship payment of £250 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. PLEASE NOTE: In accordance with the provisions of paragraph 9 of the Weights and Handicapping Code a horse must have run three times or more in order to qualify to run in this race. 14 entries, 0 at £75 and 14 at £375. - Closed June 2nd, 2025. Owners Prize Money. Winner £30473; Second £15240; Third £7620; Fourth £3810; Fifth £1905; Sixth £953. (Penalty Value £38655) Weights raised 8lbs and paragraphs 27 to 31 of the Weights and Handicapping Code complied with where applicable. SS SEE PAGE 69 FOR THIS RACE.
Eighth Race - 5.40 THE JRA TOKYO TROPHY HANDICAP STAKES (CLASS 2)
Distributed in accordance with the Stakes and Prize Money Code. £38655 to the winning horse The second to receive £18127, the third £9067, the fourth £4530, the fifth £2265 and the sixth £1132. for four yrs old and upwards, Rated 86-105 (also open to such horses rated 106 and 107; such horses rated 85 and below are also eligible - see Standard Conditions). £375 stake if the horse is rated 86 or higher, or £75 stake if the horse is rated 85 or lower with £300 extra if the horse is declared to run Declare by 10.00 a.m. June 5th. Lowest weight 8st 4lb; Highest weight 9st 9lb Penalties, after May 31st, 2025, for each race won 4yo to 6yo 5lb; 7yo and up 4lb. JRA has generously sponsored this race. All number cloths to be carried in this race have been sponsored and will carry the name/logo of JRA. The sponsorship payment of £250 will be distributed equally amongst all horses starting in this race in accordance with paragraphs 24 to 27 of the Stakes and Prize Money Code. PLEASE NOTE: In accordance with the provisions of paragraph 9 of the Weights and Handicapping Code a horse must have run three times or more in order to qualify to run in this race. 17 entries, 3 at £75 and 14 at £375. - Closed June 2nd, 2025. Owners Prize Money. Winner £30473; Second £15240; Third £7620; Fourth £3810; Fifth £1905; Sixth £953. (Penalty Value £38655) SS SEE PAGE 75 FOR THIS RACE.