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Derby Day Preview

Hi all,

It’s a big day ahead at Epsom as the Betfred Derby (3:30) takes centre stage. This year’s race honours His Highness Aga Khan IV and boasts the biggest field since 2003 — nineteen runners. Two French challengers have been supplemented, adding an international twist to a wide-open Classic.

Before the Derby, there's a strong supporting card. Group races like the Princess Elizabeth Stakes (1:00), Diomed Stakes (1:35), and the lightning-fast “Dash” Handicap (2:45) all feature. It’s an eight-race card, with ITV showing the first five. Be aware of the early start — the opener is off at 1:00.

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Oaks Day Preview

Hi all,

Epsom’s Classic meeting kicks off today with the Betfred Oaks (4.00) the highlight. The undercard includes the Group 1 Coronation Cup (2.40). ITV is showing the first five races live.

Plenty of rain had been forecast for Thursday and even more for Derby Day. But this is Britain—weather forecasts can deceive. I’ve convinced myself it’ll ride good to soft today, maybe soft by Saturday. If I’m wrong, it could be a rough couple of days for yours truly. Still, it’s a big day ahead.

Inside today's main is my preview of the Oaks Day races live on ITV.

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Derby Draw Drama and Thursday Pointers

Hi all,

Yesterday, in true racing geek style, I was tracking the final declarations for both the Oaks and Derby on the BHA website.

All nine Oaks entries stood their ground — no surprise given the lack of depth among this year’s middle-distance fillies. Newmarket 1,000 Guineas heroine Desert Flower the form pick stood her ground, but rain softened ground will test her stamina. Ryan Moore has seemingly opted for Cheshire Oaks winner Minnie Hauk ahead of Whirl and Giselle. I don’t think his decision will have been an easy one.

Remarkably, 19 of the 20 Derby entries were declared, making it the biggest field since 2003. The only absentee was Aidan O’Brien’s Puppet Master, leaving him with three: Delacroix, The Lion in Winter, and Lambourn. Ryan Moore is on Delacroix — and how often does he get it wrong these days?

With such a large field, luck in running will play a big role. I wouldn’t be shocked if something at a price sprang a surprise.

If you haven’t seen it. Here’s the Derby draw.

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