Latest from Horse & Hound in The-oaks

‘So easy!’ Father and son complete historic Derby-Oaks double, but favourite ruled out after incident at the start

Jennifer Donald — Sat, 06 Jun 2026 16:46:24 +0000

Christmas came early for Irish training maestro Aidan O’Brien when he celebrated winning his 50th British Classic with 7/1 shot Christmas Day in the Betfred Derby at Epsom Downs racecourse on Saturday (6 June).

Ridden by Ronan Whelan, the son of Camelot cruised to a commanding two-and-three-quarter-length victory over the William Haggas-trained Maltese Cross (Tom Marquand) to land the 247th running of the Epsom contest, worth £1m to the winner.

This historic Derby success came the day after Aidan’s son Joseph O’Brien saddled filly Thundering On to win the Betfred Oaks.

A 12th Epsom Derby success

“Christmas Day has done nothing but improve,” said Aidan O’Brien of his 12th Epsom Derby victor. “He’s so genuine, he stays and he handles the soft ground. Ronan gave him a beautiful ride. He’s a tough, hardy horse. This is unbelievable. But this is not just me – I’m just a small part of a very big team.”

Winning jockey Ronan Whelan, 33, in only his second season riding for the mighty Ballydoyle operation, described his first Derby success as “just so easy!”

“Aidan told me to keep it simple and the horse has done it easily – he loves the ground and it just felt effortless,” said Whelan, carrying the silks of Magnier, Tabor, Smith, Westerberg and Brant. “Running down the hill, Christmas Day had loads left – I wish I was as cool a customer as the horse because he took it all in his stride. He’s a credit to everyone who has had anything to do with him.”

Connections of the winner Christmas Day pose with their trophies and Britain’s King Charles III and Britain’s Queen Camilla at the presentation ceremony after the Derby on the second day of the Epsom Derby Festival. (Image credit: AFP via Getty Images)

Derby favourite declared a non-runner: “He was standing on three legs”

But this year’s Betfred Derby was action-packed from the start. Race favourite Benvenuto Cellini appeared to stumble out of the starting stalls, going on to complete the course but trailing home in ninth. It was then revealed that the Aidan O’Brien chestnut colt had ended up with a hind leg resting on the running board when the gates opened and a stewards’ enquiry involving Benvenuto Cellini’s jockey Ryan Moore was called. It was deemed that Benvenuto Cellini’s race had “been negatively affected” and on that basis he was declared a non-runner.

“Soon after the horse left the starting gate, we were notified that the favourite had his left hind leg on the running board just before the start, which resulted in him not being able to jump out on terms with the rest of the field,” said Shaun Parker, head of stewarding at the BHA.

“He was standing on three legs when the stalls opened.”

Further success for the O’Briens in Betfred Oaks

Aidan O’Brien’s son Joseph saddled the third horse home in the Derby, James J Braddock, just 24 hours after watching Frankel daughter Thundering On (Dylan Browne McMonagle) come home in front in the fillies’ Classic, the Betfred Oaks.

“Winning a big race like this is a dream and it’s special to share it with everyone,” said the winning trainer Joseph O’Brien, who also rode Derby winner Christmas Day’s sire Camelot to win the Epsom Classic for his father in 2012.

“Thundering On was a very impressive winner. To come to any Classic with a horse that has a legitimate chance is incredible.”

You can read the full report with exclusive insight from the Betfred Festival at Epsom in next week’s Horse & Hound magazine, in the shops Thursday 11 June.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2026, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

How to watch The Epsom Derby live from anywhere in the world

georgia.guerin@futurenet.com (Georgia Guerin) — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 15:07:25 +0000

Watch the Epsom Derby live this weekend and enjoy the action from what’s known as “the greatest flat race in the world”.

Horses only have one chance to shine in the Epsom Derby as it’s only open to three year olds, so the stakes are higher than ever.

At a glance

Epsom Derby date: 6 June 2026
Watch Epsom Derby on TV: ITV (FREE), Racing TV
Watch Epsom Derby from anywhere: Use this NordVPN deal – 75% Off

How to watch the Epsom Derby on TV

ITV will screen much of the action from the Epsom Derby Festival live and for free on ITV1 and ITVX from 1pm to 5pm on Friday and Saturday, while Racing TV (Sky channel 424/Virgin Media 536) will broadcast via its subscription-based service.

ITV Racing will broadcast six races on each day of the festival, including The Derby and The Oaks, while Racing TV will cover every race.

You don’t need an ITVX subscription to watch live racing – just an email address and a valid TV license. You can register for a free account or download the app to your mobile device.

If you’re away from home, you can use NordVPN to secure your stream of the action from anywhere in the world.

What time is the Epsom Derby?

The Derby will run at 4pm and will be the fifth of eight races at Epsom Downs on Saturday 6 June.

What time is the Epsom Oaks?

The Oaks starts at 4pm and will be the fifth of eight races at Epsom Downs on Friday 5 June.

How to watch the Epsom Derby from anywhere

If you’re away from home and your normal coverage is geo-blocked, a VPN will get you your usual coverage from anywhere in the world.

There are many VPN providers out there, with some more reliable and safe than others. We’d suggest using a paid-for service such as NordVPN, where you can get an exclusive 75% off, which offers a 100% risk-free money back guarantee. If you’re not happy with the service any time within the first 30-days, then you can cancel with no penalties at all.

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Epsom Derby Day race times

Start time	Race	Distance
1.30pm	The Betfred Tattenham Corner Stakes (Group 3)	7f
2.05pm	The Princess Elizabeth Stakes (Group 3)	1m+
2.40pm	The Coolmore Coronation Cup (Group 1)	1m 4f
3.15pm	The Betfred ‘Dash’ Handicap Stakes (Heritage Handicap)	5f
4pm	The Betfred Derby (Group 1)	1m 4f
4.40pm	The Cherryfield (Croydon) Lester Piggott Handicap Stakes	1m 2f
5.20pm	The HKJC Worldpool Northern Dancer Handicap Stakes	1m 4f
5.55pm	The JRA Tokyo Trophy Handicap Stakes	6f

How long is the Epsom Derby?

The Derby is 1m4f, which is approximately 1.5 miles or 2.414km.

What is the Epsom Derby?

The Epsom Derby is one of Britain’s richest and most prestigious Classic Flat races. It is open exclusively to three-year-old thoroughbred colts and fillies, and is the second leg of the triple crown – preceded by the 2,000 Guineas at Newmarket and followed by the St Leger at Doncaster.

The course at Epsom Downs is known for its extreme undulations and camber. Horses face a tough, steep climb in the first half-mile before navigating a sweeping descent and a long straight to finish. The Derby serves as the ultimate test of a racehorse’s speed, stamina and balance.

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‘Incredible for everyone’: mega filly powers to Oaks victory

Gemma Redrup — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 16:35:22 +0000

Indomitable Irish trainer Aidan O’Brien took the Oaks at Epsom this afternoon (6 June) for an 11th time, when Minnie Hauk battled to the line to take the Betfred-sponsored race under Ryan Moore for owners Derrick Smith, Mrs John Magnier and Michael Tabor.

It marked a 46th British Classic success for Aidan, who also trained Whirl, runner-up in this mile-and-a-half three-year-old fillies’ race.

“It’s incredible for everyone and I’m delighted,” said Mr O’Brien. “So many people are involved with this very classy filly.”

This was Minnie Hauk’s first run in a Group race and her fourth career run. She was last seen winning the Listed Cheshire Oaks at the start of May.

“There has been an abnormal amount of improvement from her since Chester,” said Mr O’Brien. “She has come on in class, rather than in stamina and fitness.

“Ryan gave her a beautiful ride today and she is a very exciting filly. She’s going to improve – she’s a great traveller and Ryan said she was going easy early on today so she could step up again.”

It was a fifth Oaks at Epsom victory for Ryan Moore.

“She’s still learning as she didn’t have much racing at two years old,” said Ryan of this daughter of Frankel, who went off second favourite at odds of 9/2 and ultimately won by a neck, but comfortably.

“Aidan had a lot of faith in her. I picked her up easily and although she wanted to roll down the camber on the run in, when the other filly came back to her, mine stayed on again and there’s more to come.”

The horses in behind

Whirl went off as fourth favourite in the Epsom Oaks at odds of 15/2; the favourite Desert Flower (11/10) finished four and a quarter lengths down in third under William Buick for trainer Charlie Appleby and owner Godolphin.

“Whirl ran a great race,” said Mr O’Brien of the daughter of Wootton Bassett. “Wootton Bassett’s are speed horses, but they’re showing that they can stay too.”

Desert Flower, who was making a bid to become the 50th filly to claim both the 1,000 Guineas and the Oaks, was no match for the winner and second-placed horses, but put in a gallant effort.

“She ran very well,” said William Buick. “She was stepping up a long way in trip today and we were hoping the rain would stay away, but it got in the ground and the track was testing and a bit tacky.

“She did everything right, but didn’t quite get the trip and the last furlong was a long one for her. She’s a filly that needs good, fast ground and whether she drops back to a mile and a quarter remains to be seen.”

2025 Epsom Oaks result: Minnie Hauk’s breeding

Minnie Hauk, bred by B V Sangster, is bred in the purple; by the formidable Frankel, out of Dansili mare Multilingual.

Frankel needs little introduction. With a current stud fee of £350,000, he sired 100 Group/Graded winners in 3,144 days, putting him ahead of Danehill, Deep Impact, Galileo and Dubawi. He was champion sire in 2021 and 2023 and also leading sire in Europe by prize money in 2021, 2022 and 2023.

Minnie Hauk’s dam is bred and owned by Juddmonte, and she was trained by John Gosden. She ran only once, finishing sixth and has no prize money to her name.

Minnie Hauk was bought by her current connections at Coolmore for €1.85 million at the Goffs Orby Sale as a yearling.

Read the full report from the Derby meeting in 12 June issue of Horse & Hound magazine.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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‘A really special day’: trainer enjoys Oaks success 43 years after his last

Gemma Redrup — Fri, 31 May 2024 17:00:28 +0000

Irish trainer Dermot Weld took the Oaks at Epsom this afternoon (31 May), when Ezeliya powered home to take the Betfred-sponsored race under Chris Hayes for owner HH The Aga Khan IV.

It was a second success in the mile and a half fillies’ Classic for Mr Weld, 43 years after Lester Piggott partnered Blue Wind to victory in the 1981 renewal.

“Ezeliya is a queen. She’s a very professional, strong-travelling filly. She did everything right, and didn’t take a step wrong,” said Chris, who is also an Irish 1000 Guineas-winning jockey.

“I just wanted to keep momentum on her and angle her out at the top of the straight and she just leapt onto the bridle again. I knew she’d stay and I knew she had class – it’s brilliant.”

Mr Weld said: “It’s a really special day. We’re very fortunate to have a filly for his Highness [The Aga Khan] as good as this.

“Patience has paid dividends with her. We took our time with her as a two-year-old and gave her just the one run this year when she won nicely at Navan.

“I said to Chris to just ride a similar race on her, ride her with confidence and take your time to get her into a rhythm before you let her go. I never worried about the distance with her – she’s a stayer with speed.”

It was a first British Classic success for Chris.

“You can have all the sprinters you like but give me a Classic any day of the week, that’s what you’ll be remembered for,” said Chris. “Any Classic winner is special and I’ve been very fortunate.”

Mr Weld said: “Chris gave her a beautiful ride. That was the plan, to ride her the same as he rode her at Navan, where he dropped her out last. She loves to come from off the pace.

“She’s a very genuine, brave filly, and her dam was a very good race mare I trained, but this filly probably has a bit more speed and a bit more class, she’s very progressive and I was confident she would stay.

“She got a beautiful ride from Chris Hayes and she had the race won a long way out. She was cantering, and she got a lovely run down the hill. Chris got her balanced and into a rhythm before he let her go.”

Speaking of possible future plans for this filly, Mr Weld said: “We’ll see how she comes out of the race. She’s not a big filly, and Classics always take something out of a horse, we’ll review it.

“She is in the Irish Oaks, but we’ll decide whether we give her time off for an autumn campaign, which may involve the Arc.”

Continuing to reflect on his winning ride, Chris explained: “She moved forward quicker than I thought she was going to. I never had a moment’s doubt, once I was approaching the furlong pole, I knew nothing was going to be able to come as quickly as she was going to finish. It took me right to the end to pull her up – it’s probably because I was celebrating as well, but I had a good bit of petrol left. It was brilliant.”

The horses in behind

Ezeliya went off as second favourite in the Epsom Oaks at odds of 13/2, while the favourite Ylang Ylang (11/8) finished nine-and-a-half lengths down in sixth under Ryan Moore for trainer Aidan O’Brien. Dance Sequence finished second under William Buick for trainer Charlie Appleby and owner Godolphin, three lengths behind the winner. This classy filly looked unbalanced on the notorious Epsom camber in the latter stages of the race, but is definitely one to watch for the future.

Mr Appleby said: “She did find the track tricky, yes. I think William was just glad to get her across the line in the end. He said we were probably outstayed, realistically, but he had to make his move when he did – the race was coming back to him and she was going forward, and I totally agree with him on all aspects there. It was a very pleasing run and we’ll have some fun with her in the summer, and more in the autumn when we know she appreciates cut in the ground.”

The 50/1 shot War Chimes finished a creditable third in the Epsom Oaks result, four-and-a-half lengths behind the winner, under Tom Marquand for trainer David Menuisier and owner Tars Farm Equestrian Stud.

Mr Menusier said of his filly’s Epsom Oaks result: “It was like winning. She’s an unbelievable filly. The last time she ran in France, there was no pace, she was pulling too hard and she had no cover, and she couldn’t relax. I just draw a line through that and I always felt that she’d be better at 1m4f.”

2024 Epsom Oaks result: Ezeliya’s breeding

Ezeliya, a home-bred by the Aga Khan, is bred in the purple; by the formidable Dubawi, out of a Teofilo mare named Eziyra. Remarkably, this is the first Oaks winner Dubawi has sired from 15 previous attempts.

Dubawi is the most successful stallion ever to stand in Britain. He has sired 266 Stakes winners, 175 Group winners, 57 Group One winners. He stands at his owner’s Dalham Hall Stud at a fee of £350,000 for the 2024 season.

Ezeliya’s dam is also a home-bred belonging to theAga Khan, and she was also trained by Dermot Weld. She clocked £541,876 during her career on the Flat, with her most notable victory coming in the Group Two Blandford Stakes at the Curragh in 2018. Ezeliya is from the family of Estimate, who won the Ascot Gold Cup.

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‘It’s mental’: Frankie Dettori bags final Oaks victory at Epsom in his last year in the saddle

Gemma Redrup — Fri, 02 Jun 2023 17:24:58 +0000

Frankie Dettori made his final ride in the Epsom Oaks a winning one when riding the John and Thady Gosden-trained Soul Sister to a comfortable victory. This is Frankie’s final year in the saddle, making this Group One Betfred Oaks victory a particularly poignant one.

Frankie said to ITV after achieving his seventh victory in this prestigious race: “That means a lot – seven Oaks winners. Lady Bamford is a big supporter of mine and in my last year that is my second Classic winner – unbelievable.” The 52-year-old jockey also won the first Classic of the season, the QIPCO 2,000 Guineas at Newmarket, on Chaldean.

Frankie enjoyed further Group One success earlier in the day when piloting Emily Upjohn to victory in the Coronation Cup, also for John and Thady Gosden.

“I have ridden two great fillies this afternoon – Emily Upjohn and this one. I just want to soak it in now!” said Frankie. “It was a bit messy at the beginning and I didn’t want to go too wide. William [Buick] stopped quickly and I had to go wide, but I kept her balanced and she did the rest.”

Frankie’s previous Oaks winners are Balanchine (1994), Moonshell (1995), Kazzia (2002), Enable (2017), Anapurna (2019) and Snowfall (2021). He has now ridden 23 English Classic winners.

Of how the race panned out, Frankie said: “I followed Buick and he dived very quickly around Tattenham Corner and so I had to take evasive actions and swing right. We got organised and sat quiet between the three and the one and a half furlong poles and then I was just hoping that if I pressed the button she would go – and she did go. She’s shown so much class.

“If I stayed on one more year, I may get close to Lester [Piggott]’s 30 [Classic wins]. I’m joking! It’s incredible and I’ve had some fantastic rides. Emily and Soul Sister mean it’s two in the bag and we’ve one to go with Arrest tomorrow.

“It is mental, I’ll be honest with you. I thought I had three good rides in the three Group One races, but to have two in the bag already with the Derby to go is crazy. I’m stuck for words!”

Soul Sister is owned and was bred by Lady Bamford, who is a long-term supporter of racing. She led her mare in to the winner’s enclosure and was unsurprisingly delighted with the victory having previously enjoyed Oaks success with Sariska in 2009.

This was a fourth Oaks victory for John Gosden, who now trains alongside his son Thady.

“I could see she was coming strongly, but I didn’t know if she’d stay the mile and a half, but she did, and she stayed it well, which she needed,” said John. “This last half furlong up the hill will find them out, but she stuck her neck out and she’s a classy filly.

“Her family are milers, but looking at her pedigree I saw Darshaan under the third dam, so I thought there was a chance she’d stay. I didn’t know until the two marker what was going to happen, but it was a strongly run race and she’s beaten two nice fillies, seeing it out well.”

Of plans for the future with Soul Sister, John explained: “I think she’s versatile enough to go a mile and a quarter or a mile and a half. It’s great for her to win a Classic for the owners, who bred her at their own farm, and let me tell you, that’s not an easy game. It’s hard enough to get a mare in foal, let alone breed a horse like that.”

Soul Sister went off at odds of 11/4, while short-priced favourite Savethelastdance (5/6) finished one-and-three-quarter lengths down in second under Ryan Moore for trainer Aidan O’Brien in the Epsom Oaks. 40/1 shot Caernarfon finished a creditable third, just a head behind Savethelastdance, under Connor Beasley for trainer Jack Channon.

Aidan O’Brien said of Savethelastdance’s performance: “She has run well, but she obviously handles soft ground and stays very well. We were very happy with her really. She has a lot of options and we can do whatever. She is a big honest filly that stays very well and handles soft ground when it comes. She handles good ground, but soft ground doesn’t bother her.”

Jack Channon said of his Epsom Oaks result: “At the top of the hill she was travelling so well, but you could see that Frankie was travelling just as well. We picked up just as well as her [Soul Sister] up until about the furlong pole, and she probably hasn’t quite got up the hill.

“She’s a very good filly, we’re blessed to have her in the yard, and it’s just a massive thank you to everyone in the yard who has done such a great job.”

2023 Epsom Oaks result: Soul Sister’s breeding

Soul Sister is bred in the purple; by the unbeaten Frankel, out of a Dansili mare named Dream Peace. Frankel needs little introduction – he clocked almost £3m in prize money during his unbeaten run of 14 races. His victories included the Royal Lodge Stakes, the Dewhurst Stakes, the Greenham Stakes, the 2,000 Guineas, the St James’s Palace Stakes, the Sussex Stakes in both 2011 and 2012, the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes, the Lockinge Stakes, the Queen Anne Stakes, the International Stakes and the Champion Stakes.

Dream Peace has proved herself to be a very useful broodmare with a handful of successful progeny, including Soul Sister. Dream Peace clocked over £500,000 in prize money while racing in the USA, winning four of her 18 races, finishing second in three others and third on eight other occasions.

Read the full report from the Derby meeting in the 8 June issue of Horse & Hound magazine.

Aidan O’Brien claims seventh Derby success at Epsom

Hannah Lemieux — Sat, 01 Jun 2019 17:17:41 +0000

Anthony Van Dyck became trainer Aidan O’Brien’s seventh Investec Derby victory when the Galileo colt stormed to success in the Group One Epsom Classic today (Saturday, 1 June).

Very little divided the top five at the finishing line, with the winning mount of Seamie Heffernan holding off the Kevin Prendergast-trained Madhmoon, under Chris Hayes, by just half a length.

O’Brien horses filled the next four places, with the Irish handler’s Japan (Wayne Lordan) finishing a nose in third.

The winning Ballydoyle three-year-old, a 13/2 shot, stayed on up the iconic Epsom home run under Irishman Seamie, who was claiming his first Investec Derby win.

“I knew he’d do it when I needed him,” said Seamie, whose bold riding was rewarded. He switched his mount left onto the rail one furlong out and the pair led 100 yards from the line.

“It is a privilege to be part of this team — the lads at home put so much in day in, day out,” said Aidan.

“A few of my horses were in with a chance during the closing stages, and I was just delighted they were a part of the race in the final furlong. It’s a tough race and, until the horse passes the finish line, you’re just never sure [of the result].”

The top Irish trainer was also thrilled for the winning jockey.

“Seamie has been placed in the Derby so many times — he is a special fella and a world-class rider.”

The victory sees Aidan equal Robert Robson, John Porter and Fred Darling for most Derby wins.

Girls on form

The fillies’ Group One equivalent, the Investec Oaks, was won by the John Gosden-trained Anapurna on Friday (31 May).

The daughter of Frankel rallied inside the final furlong under Frankie Dettori, leading the last 110 yards and beating the Aidan O’Brien-trained Pink Dogwood (Ryan Moore) by a neck.

Don’t miss our full report from the Investec Derby meeting in the 6 June issue of Horse & Hound.

Meet the superstar filly who beats the boys and breaks records

Hannah Lemieux — Thu, 16 Nov 2017 19:31:38 +0000

H&H finds out more about the superstar filly, who was recently crowned Cartier Horse of the Year...

Enable has captured the hearts of racing fans across not only the country, but also Europe and not least the heart of her jockey Frankie Dettori. She is a freak of nature, she has girl power in abundance, and for her owner and trainer, she is a “filly of a lifetime”.

The phenomenal three-year-old filly was bred by her owner Khalid Abdullah’s Juddmonte Farm and therefore runs in the famous silks carried by the mighty Frankel.

The daughter of Nathaniel is in training with Newmarket-based John Gosden and has been ridden in all but two of her races by the brilliant Frankie Dettori.

She made her first appearance on a racecourse in November 2016 as a two-year-old. It was a comfortable winning debut in the one-mile maiden race on the all-weather at Newcastle and propelled her into an unforgettable 2017.

Lanfranco Dettori riding Enable wins the horse racing Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe at Hippodrome de Chantilly on October 1, 2017 in Chantilly, France. (Photo by Scoop Dyga/Icon Sport) (Image credit: Icon Sport via Getty Images)

A form that speaks for itself

Enable’s three-year-old campaign kicked off in April when she switched to the turf for the first time at Newbury — she stayed on to finish third behind stable companion Shutter Speed.

This week, she was crowned the Cartier Horse of the Year at racing’s equivalent of the ‘Oscars’, the Cartier Racing Awards (pictured, below). She was also the deserved recipient of the Cartier three-year-old filly in 2017.

Her 2017 form speaks for itself (3 1 1 1 1 1 1) and this year she created history when winning an outstanding five Group One victories.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Winning in the rain

The wonder filly’s flurry of Group One triumphs began when she headed to Epsom for the Investec Oaks, where she was up against eight fillies headed by red-hot favourite Rhododendron, runner-up in the 1,000 Guineas.

It was a dramatic renewal of the 12-furlong Classic and was run in driving rain when a thunderstorm broke shortly beforehand. However, Enable quickening clear of the field inside the final furlong to score by five lengths.

She became the first filly in seven years to follow up victory in the Investec Oaks with success in the Group One Darley Irish Oaks at the Curragh in Ireland — Frankie hurried back from a shoulder injury to partner the superstar.

Enable ridden by Frankie Dettori wins The Darley Yorkshire Oaks during Darley Yorkshire Oaks and Ladies Day of the Yorkshire Ebor Festival at York Racecourse. (Image credit: PA Wire/PA Images)

Taking on the boys

When she went to Ascot for the Group One King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes, it was the first time she had come up against older horses and colts. Frankie got down to his near-minimum weight of 8st 7lb to partner her again.

She had a formidable challenge with the likes of Highland Reel, Jack Hobbs and Ulysses in the mix. However, in her usual fashion she cruised up, powering away from her rivals.

CHANTILLY, FRANCE - OCTOBER 01: Frankie Dettori riding Enable (L) win The Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe during Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe meeting at Chantilly Racecourse on October 1, 2017 in Chantilly, France. (Photo by Alan Crowhurst/Getty Images) (Image credit: Getty Images)

Breaking records

Her final hurrah of the season saw her become the first three-year-old filly trained in Britain to win the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe. She is also the seventh horse to capture the race after winning the King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes in the same season — emulating greats such as Ribot, Mill Reef and Dancing Brave.

The best news for Enable fans is that she is set to be back in training for the 2018 Flat season (the breeding shed can wait a bit longer) and may even head back to France to defend her Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe title.

For all the latest equestrian news and reports, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine out every Thursday

50-1 outsider produces shock result in Epsom Classic

Jennifer Donald — Fri, 05 Jun 2015 16:35:32 +0000

The 2015 running of the Investec Oaks today (Friday 5 June) was won by Qualify — a 50-1 shot and the least fancied of trainer Aidan O’Brien’s three runners.

This was the Ballydoyle trainer’s fifth victory in the race and made all the more special as he also bred the filly. She was ridden to victory by Colm O’Donoghue, having only his fourth ride in the Epsom Classic.

“She’s always shown us a lot of pace and she’s a well-balanced filly,” said Colm. “The thing was just to get her to switch off and to see if she’d get the trip. She saw it out really strong.”

Connections were less surprised by the result than bookies and punters.

The trainer assessed: “She was always very classy — she won a Group Three very easily at The Curragh last year. We didn’t know about a mile and a half but she’s by Fastnet Rock out of a Galileo mare and when the going gets tough they usually don’t disappoint you. Colm gave her a masterful ride.”

The favourite Legatissimo, another Irish raider sent out by David Wachman and ridden by Ryan Moore, finished a close second. In third was the Luca Cumani-trained Lady Of Dubai, with Adam Kirby in the saddle.

A steward’s enquiry was called to look at multiple incidents of interference down the home straight but this didn’t affect the winner.

The opening day at Epsom provided plenty more surprise results and 16-year-old apprentice jockey Eddy Greatrex grabbed the headlines with his classy ride on David Taylor’s homebred Elbereth to win the Investec Wealth & Investment Stakes earlier in the afternoon. This 16-1 chance was trained by Andrew Balding.

“It was a big opportunity and it just panned out,” said Eddy. “She’s game as anything – we turned in and I saw a gap. She tends to hang left but I’m just glad to get a winner for the boss. It was very hard to ride round Epsom but I think I got the hang of it in the end.”

Don’t miss the full report from Epsom in next week’s issue of Horse & Hound, out Thursday 11 June.

Picture by Bill Selwyn

Taghrooda wins the Oaks in style

Amy Mathieson — Fri, 06 Jun 2014 16:23:43 +0000

Taghrooda took the 2014 Investec Oaks in style, providing a 1st win in the race for trainer John Gosden and jockey Paul Hanagan.

The bay filly ran strongly throughout the mile-and-a-half contest, before picking up 2 furlongs out and winning by 3¾ lengths.

Taghrooda was originally joint favourite, but drifted to 5-1 behind Marvellous, trained by Aidan O’Brien. Marvellous finished 6th.

It was a 1st Classic victory for Paul Hanagan.

“It feels great. It’s what I’ve worked hard for,” he said.

Owner Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum was celebrating a 1-2, when his filly Tarfasha finished 2nd for trainer Dermot Weld.

The front-running Volume, ridden by last year’s winning jockey, Richard Hughes, was 3rd.

Taghrooda is now 3 from 3 starts, winning her 1st race in September at Newmarket.

She then took the Pretty Polly Stakes at Newmarket last month (4 May) by an impressive 6 lengths. Going into the Oaks she was expected by connections to handle the step up in trip thanks to her pedigree.

Her father is 2009 Derby winner Sea The Stars while her mother, Ezima, won over 1m2f-1m6f — so her breeding was perfect for the 1m4f Oaks.

And the 3-year-old appeared to handle the distance and unique undulations of the Epsom track perfectly.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The 2014 Investec Oaks was run in memory of Sir Henry Cecil, who won the race 8 times. The trainer died of cancer last year.

Don’t miss an interview with Oaks-winning trainer John Gosden in the current issue of H&H (5 June).

Watch H&H’s exclusive Epsom course walk with former jockey Michael Hills.

For a full report on the Investec Derby Festival see the 12 June issue of H&H.

Pictures by Bill Selwyn.

See new Investec Oaks trophy being designed and cast [VIDEO]

Amy Mathieson — Thu, 05 Jun 2014 14:15:43 +0000

Cast in silver and based on the undulating Epsom course, the modern Oaks Trophy will make an eye-catching addition to any racehorse owner or trainer’s mantelpiece.

The new trophy has been created by equestrian artist Charlie Langton. It incorporates a small sculpture of the first winner of the Classic, Bridget — owned by the 12th Earl of Derby in 1779.

And to celebrate the race’s history, all past winners’ names are engraved on it.

“The design is similar to that of the Derby Trophy [which Charlie made in 2010], as I wanted to keep the dynamic shape of the base, which reflects the unique terrain of Epsom,” said Charlie.

The trophy was unveiled on 23 April, 2014 and was made in association with silversmith Asprey and commissioned by title sponsor Investec.

This year the Oaks will be run in memory of Sir Henry Cecil.

For H&H’s Oaks and Derby preview issue — with features and form guide — don’t miss the 29 May issue of H&H magazine

Was wins the Investec Oaks

Horse & Hound — Fri, 01 Jun 2012 16:35:45 +0000

The Aidan O’Brien-trained filly Was won the Investec Oaks on the first day of Investec Derby Festival at Epsom by a neck.

A daughter of Galileo who cost her owners Coolmore 1.2million guineas as a yearling, Was started the race as one of the less-fancied of O’Brien’s five runners.

But once leader Nayarra dropped away, Was swept to the front under Seamus Heffernan and stayed the mile and a half well to see off second-placed Shirocco Star, who ran a terrific race for Darryl Holland and Hughie Morrison, despite getting very worked up in the preliminaries.

The Fugue, the John Gosden-trained 11-4 favourite, was lucky to survive an early bump and did well to finish third ahead of Vow.

O’Brien has now trained the winners of all three British Classics run so far this year, and his 2000 Guineas hero Camelot is red-hot favourite to take the Derby tomorrow.

“Seamus gave her a lovely ride. She’s a very good-looking filly with a great pedigree,” said O’Brien, whose son Joseph will ride Camelot in the Derby. “Seamus knows all the horse inside out [he is the Ballydoyle stable jockey] – no one deserves this more.”

Dancing Rain wins the Investec Oaks at Epsom

Horse & Hound — Fri, 03 Jun 2011 16:05:55 +0000

Dancing Rain sprang a surprise in the Investec Oaks at Epsom today, leading from stalls to post to win at 20-1. Ridden by Johnny Murtagh, the chestnut Danehill Dancer filly held on gamely to resist Wonder Of Wonders and Kieren Fallon. The pair were four lengths clear of the third, Izzi Top.

Frankie Dettori received a 10-day ban for dropping his hands and losing third place on the fourth horse home, 1000 Guineas heroine Blue Bunting.

It was only Dancing Rain’s fourth run — she broke her maiden at Newbury in April and was second in a Listed race at the same track three weeks ago. Owned by brothers Martin and Lee Taylor, she gave both Johnny Murtagh and trainer William Haggas their first Oaks success.

“This is what it is all about,” said an ecstatic Haggas. “It’s just a matter of getting the right horse and on this occasion, the right jockey.

“Last year she was hopeless but she was steadily getting better and she’s still getting better. Johnny was clever, but she stays and we didn’t make enough use of her last time.

“My wife Maureen has always ridden this filly at home but unfortunately they had an accident going out of the stalls three weeks ago and Maureen broke her leg. The filly rewarded her, anyway.”

Coronation Cup for St Nicholas Abbey

The day’s other Group One contest was a thrilling renewal of the Coronation Cup. Henry Cecil’s brilliant filly Midday just failed to hold off St Nicholas Abbey, one-time favourite for last year’s Derby.

After disappointing in the 2000 Guineas, St Nicholas Abbey didn’t appear on a racecourse until this spring. He showed today that he is a top-class middle-distance horse who will give the 2010 Derby hero Workforce a run for his money in the Arc this autumn, all being well.

When St Nicholas Abbey failed to handle the camber of the track round Tattenham Corner, Midday and Tom Queally struck for home. But, happier over 10 furlongs than this mile and a half, the five-times Group One-winning mare couldn’t hold off the year-younger colt’s driving finish.

Carlton House set for the Derby

The Queen’s Carlton House will start favourite for tomorrow’s Investec Derby after seemingly overcoming some swelling in a leg earlier in the week. Although there has been huge interest from the media in The Queen’s first Derby runner since Church Parade in 1981, it was somewhat overshadowed today by the controversy that surrounds jockey Kieren Fallon’s ride in the race.

Fallon has been declared to ride the Aiden O’Brien-trained Recital, but the owner of Native Khan, another Derby runner, went to court on Friday to try to prevent him riding Recital. Ibrahim Araci claimed that Fallon had a previous contract to ride Native Khan. Araci’s bid failed, but he was given leave to appeal, which has yet to be settled, so Fallon’s participation in the Derby is as yet uncertain.

H&H racing editor’s Derby blog: not exactly Moore the merrier

Catherine Austen — Sat, 05 Jun 2010 17:13:48 +0000

The bigwigs at Racing for Change, the body charged with revitalising racing’s image, must have their heads in their hands. They desperately want to make stars out of the top jockeys and, outside of Frankie Dettori and AP McCoy, the public hasn’t got a clue who they are.

Now Ryan Moore, the 26-year-old jockey who has been champion three times already, follows his first Classic win in the Oaks with his second the following day in the Derby. He’s a brilliant rider with the support of Britain’s top trainer, Sir Michael Stoute, and is likely to be champion for as long as he wants to be — quite possibly the next two decades. Great story, no?

The problem is that Ryan doesn’t want to be a great story. To say he’s taciturn is to put it kindly. It’s not that he won’t talk to the press — he’s not particularly stroppy or difficult — he just doesn’t ever say anything when he does. Asked yesterday whether it meant a lot to him to win his first Classic, he basically said no, it wasn’t, then added that it wasn’t the Derby, anyway.

Today he made a bit more of an effort and mumbled a few clichés while looking rather embarrassed about it being a great race, but it was hardly the emotive stuff we expect from our sports stars now.

It wouldn’t really have been difficult, would it, to try a bit harder? He knows well enough by now what the journalists want. He doesn’t have to do flying dismounts and snog the camera — there is only one Frankie Dettori, after all — but we’d like to think the Derby meant more than a Newmarket handicap.

As journalists, we build up these top races to try and get the wider public to understand that racing is a big deal, that the battle of horse against horse is a magnificent spectacle, that it’s heart-stopping stuff. When the winning rider shrugs it off like it’s a primary school egg and spoon race, how can we expect the general public to take an interest?

But Ryan’s ice-cool attitude and nerves of steel are why he’s such an amazing jockey. He’s a consummate horseman, a top athlete, and a winner by nature. He’s just not a talker. I don’t think he’ll ever be one, and Racing for Change should accept that and promote him for his talents in the saddle, not at the end of a microphone. Let’s hope that Frankie wins enough big races to compensate.

Don’t miss next Thursday’s magazine (10 June) for a special report, analysis and comment on the Classic meeting

H&H racing editor’s blog: hot stuff at Epsom

Horse & Hound — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 17:41:40 +0000

Do you know, it’s great being a girl. At least, today it is. It’s boiling hot at Epsom, the press room is steaming away like a pressure cooker, and I’m smugly cool as a cucumber in a sleeveless dress while my male colleagues are awash with sweat in dark suits and ties. Well, a slightly wilted cucumber, but it’s better than being a baked bean.

It’s Ladies’ Day at Epsom — the fillies have their moment of glory in the Oaks, while the two-legged types are parading like peacocks.

The now-ubiquitous Katie Price is here, although I’m not sure if what she’s wearing would be deemed “ladylike”, precisely. Mind you, it’s the first time I’ve ever seen her in a high-necked dress with sleeves, so maybe that’s a bit unfair.

One woman is wearing a giant white horse’s head as a hat, which I suppose is appropriate, but pretty odd. There’s a lot of flesh on show, turning pinker by the minute in the blazing sun.

Derby day tomorrow is due to be even hotter. The idea of cramming a hat on my head is grim, but at least I won’t have to wear full morning dress like the boys. There’ll be some big dry cleaning bills between now and Royal Ascot as they perspire gently into their woollen coats.

Last year we saw the emergence of a true superstar horse when Sea The Stars bolted home in the Derby, racing’s crowning glory. It would be too much to expect another so good so soon, but whoever wins tomorrow’s race will be a hero — at least for a day.

Snow Fairy wins the Oaks at Epsom Downs

Horse & Hound — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 17:07:48 +0000

Twenty thousand pounds is a lot of money to pay to enter a race. But Snow Fairy proved it absolutely worthwhile when she won the Investec Oaks today, giving jockey Ryan Moore a first Classic in the process.

The dark bay filly, a 9-1 chance, came from well off the pace with a late burst and held off the David Lanigan-trained Meeznah to win by a neck. Third was Remember When, trained by Aidan O’Brien, and fourth was Rumoush.

Snow Fairy, by Inktihab out of a Charnwood Forest mare, is owned and bred by Cristina Patino, and it was she who suggested to trainer Ed Dunlop that the filly be supplemented for the Oaks after she won a Listed race at Goodwood last month. Mrs Patino has most of her horses with Ed Dunlop’s father, John, but she has one each with Ed and his brother Harry, who also trains.

It was Ed Dunlop’s second Oaks victory after Ouija Board’s memorable win in 2004.

“I have lost my voice!” said Ed. “We had doubts about Snow Fairy staying, but we knew she was very tough and that she can quicken, which she showed today. The whole thing is a bit of a fairytale.”

Last year’s Irish Derby winner Fame And Glory took the Investec Coronation Cup under Johnny Murtagh, beating the 2009 Oaks winner Sariska, trained by Horse & Hound columnist Michael Bell, into second.

Stay up to date with all the action from Epsom on Horseandhound.co.uk and don’t miss next Thursday’s magazine for a special report, analysis and comment on the Classic meeting

British-bred Sariska wins the Oaks at Epsom

Horse & Hound — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 17:14:45 +0000

Horse & Hound columnist Michael Bell trained the winner of the Investec Oaks at Epsom today when Sariska just touched off Midday in a photo-finish.

Sariska, owned and bred by Lady Bamford, is British-bred, by Cheveley Park Stud’s stallion Pivotal out of the Muhtarram mare Maycocks Bay.

Sariska always raced prominently, and swept into the lead under jockey Jamie Spencer coming round the home turn. The Henry Cecil-trained Midday challenged her all the way to the line after an initial attack by High Heeled was foiled, but Sariska held on by the shortest of margins to deny Cecil a 10th Oaks victory.

It was the trainer’s first winner of the race, and completes his Epsom Classic set — he took the Derby in 2005 with Motivator.

“To bag the Oaks is an amazing feeling. It’s a lonely place out in front, especially for a filly so inexperienced, but the post came in time. She fulfilled all my expectations and we’re so thrilled to have her,” said Bell.

Sariska was the 9-4 favourite for the race, having taken one of the most significant trials, the Musidora Stakes at York, last month. She returned after the race with a cut on her hindleg, so plans for the future are on hold until connections are sure she has recovered.

High Heeled was a surprise in third at 33-1 for veteran trainer Barry Hills, 2 1/2 lengths behind Midday. Second favourite Rainbow View, trained by John Gosden, was fourth. Her run was interrupted by Sariska, who moved across her path, but the subsequent stewards’ inquiry left the places unaltered.

The Sir Michael Stoute-trained six-year-old Ask came out top in a thrilling three-way finish to the Investec Coronation Cup. He beat perennial runner-up Youmzain by a nose, with last year’s Oaks heroine Look Here also a nose behind in third.

Ask is yet another Group One winner for 14-times champion sire Sadler’s Wells, who, either directly or through his sons, is responsible for nine out of the 12 runners in tomorrow’s Investec Derby. South Easter, trained by William Haggas, will not run because he has been coughing.

The Derby will be shown live on BBC1 tomorrow (6 June) at 3.45pm.

Stay in touch with all the action from Epsom on Horseandhound.co.uk and don’t miss H&H’s special report on the Epsom Classics meeting in next Thursday’s magazine

Horse & Hound at Epsom: racing editor’s blog

Catherine Austen — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 19:42:17 +0000

There’s just something about a Classic. You can take your Cheltenhams and your Aintrees — in high summer I wouldn’t give you a penny for them.

The sight of a fleet of beautifully-bred, burnished three-year-olds sailing down Epsom’s hill with reputations, careers and millions of pounds riding on them really is something to take home and dream about.

A lot of people in the equestrian world dismiss flat racing as boring. Are they mad?

Let’s not forget that all horse sports hold flat racing at the top of their pedigree tree. If people hadn’t cared whether Thoroughbreds could run faster than one another a couple of hundred years ago, we wouldn’t have Badminton, or the Hickstead Derby, or the Royal International Horse Show.

These horses really are the best of the best, and they look it. Each detail is finely sculpted for maximum physical ability; these fillies running in today’s Oaks are the supermodels of the horse world. Kate Moss, eat your heart out.

And it’s not just the racing crowd who agree — it was a surprise to spot the lean, hawk-billed profile and wide shoulders of Mark Todd inspecting them closely in the paddock. Let’s not forget the great man trained an Oaks winner of his own — Bramble Rose won the New Zealand version in 2003. He’s a man who knows a good horse when he sees one.

Light Shift wins Vodaphone Oaks at Epsom

Horse & Hound — Fri, 01 Jun 2007 16:30:04 +0000

Seven years to the day after saddling his 23rd Classic winner Henry Cecil was given a heroes welcome at Epsom today after Light Shift had given him a record equalling eighth Vodafone Oaks and a 24th Classic in total.

The intervening seven years have been anything but happy for Cecil, both in his personal life and on the racecourse. A virus among his horses and the fact that his core patron, the old money owner-breeder, has become an endangered species has seen his numbers and, accordingly, success dwindle to a trickle.

But you don’t just start training badly and signs of the comeback, despite the trainer being treated through the winter for cancer, were evident before this meeting got underway. With the favourite, Passage of Light, and the marginally less fancied Light Shift in the race, it was just like old times for Cecil.

Light Shift, owned and bred by the Niarchos family who have supported Cecil since the early 80s, was taken wide round Tattenham Corner to avoid the rough and tumble of the pack by her jockey Ted Durcan who, in stark contrast to Cecil, was winning his first ever Classic.

He hit the front three out and looked to have built up an unassailable lead but Peeping Fawn, one of the four runners in the race trained by Aidan O’Brien, emerged from the pack and looked like catching her. Light Shift found more and battled home to win by half a length with four back to All My Loving.

After being given three cheers several times Cecil said: “I really appreciate all the support I’ve had. It’s lovely to be back — it’s a funny feeling, almost embarrassing. I was very worried when the other filly came to her. I didn’t favour one filly over the other but Passage of Time didn’t appear to stay.”

Frankie Dettori did not enjoy the best preparation for his 15th attempt at winning the Derby. Sixties Icon, the favourite, finished plum last in the Coronation Cup in which Aidan O’Brien was first and second with Scorpion and Septimus. His ride in the Oaks, Measured Tempo, only beat one horse home.

Vodaphone Oaks

1. Light Shift (T E Durcan) 13-2

2. Peeping Fawn (Martin Dwyer) 20-1

3. All My Loving (C Soumillon) 5-1

Don’t miss H&H Derby report online after the race tomorrow, plus indepth analysis of all the action from Epsom in next Thursday’s magazine (7 June, ’07)

Vodafone Derby Day is a sell-out

Horse & Hound — Thu, 31 May 2007 11:26:08 +0000

All tickets and badges for Saturday’s Vodafone Derby Day on Epsom Downs have sold out.

“They do so every year but this year we’ve sold out earlier than ever before,” said a spokesman for the Derby.

There will be no access to the stands and enclosures on the day except for those who have booked in advance — but the hill, in the centre of the course is free to access for all.

“So we never really know how many people really attend,” said the spokesman, adding: “With all 19 horses declared, it should make for a very memorable year.”

Tickets have also been going unusually fast for Vodafone Ladies Day, tomorrow (Friday, 1 June), when two Group One races, the Vodafone Oaks and the Vodafone Coronation Cup, are run.

The Queen’s Stand is sold out, but there are some tickets still available for the Grandstand.

Stay in touch with all the action from the Vodafone Oaks and the Vodafone Derby with HorseandHound.co.uk’s reports from Epsom

Eswarah emulates dam with outstanding Oaks win

Horse & Hound — Fri, 03 Jun 2005 16:39:46 +0000

Oaks joint favourite Eswarah fulfilled every expectation this afternoon with a brilliant victory at Epsom this afternoon, following in her mother’s footsteps. Bred with a Classic victory in mind, the daughter of Midway Lady brought back images of her mother’s win 19 years ago as she stormed to victory in the Vodafone Oaks.

“Her dam was very good, but this filly is exceptional,” gushed trainer Michael Jarvis.

Jockey Richard Hills rode a smart race, keeping the filly well back out of the fray until they turned the corner down the hill to the finish. “I didn’t want her bumped all the way round — I thought it might frighten her. Everything went well from there. I followed them into the straight and it was then a matter of waiting before I pounced. ”

Eswarah was chased down the hill by the tiny filly Something Exciting but couldn’t be caught. Something Exciting’s prospects seemed to be under threat in a line-up of powerful-looking fillies, but she proved her class and staying power to finish well. Trainer David Elsworth was thrilled by her performance, but paid homage to the dazzling Eswarah.

“She ran a wonderful race. For a moment I thought she was going to pass them all, but the other filly [Eswarah] outstayed her. In the end she was beaten by a better filly on the day, a filly that I think I’ll try to avoid!” he said.

Joint favourite Virginia Waters made up good ground in the final furlongs, but faded towards the very end of the race. This was her first attempt at this distance and jockey Kieren Fallon failed to work his usual magic as the 1000 Guineas winner was eventually beaten into third place by the Irish filly Pictavia.