The Investec Epsom Derby Meeting got underway today, Friday 3rd June, when the Coronation Cup and Investec Oaks, both Group 1’s, were run over the Derby distance of 1 mile 4 furlongs. St Nicoholas Abbey and Midday fought out a thrilling finish in the Coronation Cup and Dancing Rain received a great tactical ride from Johnny Murtagh to win the Investec Oaks, a classic race for three year old fillies.

The big event tomorrow is the Investec Derby, a race worth £1,250,000 for three year colts. Carlton House (pictured beating Seville at York) is owned by the Queen and is favourite for the race. The injury scare in the week makes his price seem too short as a betting proposition. As usual Aidan O’Brien sends over a strong team from Ireland and has four of the thirteen runners. All of his runners, Recital, Seville, Memphis Tennessee and Treasure Beach look certain to stay the Derby distance. Seville was just beaten by Carlton House in a slowly run Dante at York. Recital beat Memphis Tennessee in the Leopardstown Trial and Treasure Beach won the Chester Vase. Memphis Tennessee will be ridden by Aidan O’Brien’s son Joseph and at the odds of 20/1 looks to be the each way value.