5 minutes Including the Betfred Derby, there are five races set to be televised live on ITV on Saturday and below I’ll run the rule over all five races.
One of the highlights of the British horse racing calendar is upon us as Epsom prepares to host the Betfred Derby on Saturday afternoon. Britain's richest flat race is undoubtedly the biggest race of the weekend but there is an exceptional supporting cast at Epsom on Saturday. Including the Betfred Derby, there are five races set to be televised live on ITV Racing on Saturday and below I’ll run the rule over all five races, offering my exclusive horse racing betting tips as well as odds courtesy of race sponsors Betfred.
1:00 Epsom
Princess Elizabeth Stakes (Sponsored By Oddschecker) (Group 3) (Fillies & Mares)
The Princess Elizabeth Stakes brings together a competitive line-up of fillies and mares, but ROYAL DRESS looks poised to make amends after an unlucky run in this race last year. A Listed and Group 3 winner over 1m-1m1f, she shaped well on her seasonal return in Group 2 company and should relish a strong pace. If she finds clear running this time, she’s the one they all have to beat.
Bermuda Longtail, the only three-year-old in the field, receives a handy weight allowance and is improving quickly. She finished strongly on turf debut at York and could be a real threat if taking another step forward. Sparks Fly will also be dangerous if the ground softens, with her Listed wins in testing conditions highlighting her ability when the mud is flying.
In a race where course position and luck will be vital, Royal Dress appeals most, but Bermuda Longtail and Sparks Flyadd plenty of intrigue for each-way players.
1:35 Epsom
Betfred Diomed Stakes (Group 3)
The Betfred Diomed Stakes looks competitive, but DOCKLANDS stands out as the class act. His second-place finish in last year’s Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot is easily the strongest form on offer. Although this will be his first experience of Epsom’s unique track, his versatility on different ground conditions and overall profile suggest he is capable of handling it.
Persica emerges as the main danger. Already a Group 3 winner this season, he boasts valuable course form, having won on this card last year. His proven ability to handle the track’s undulations gives him a strong edge over less experienced rivals. For each-way backers, Geography brings an interesting angle. A triple Group 3 winner in Germany, he returned with a career-best this season and could be a serious player if adapting to Epsom.
2:10 Epsom
This is a typically competitive renewal of the Betfred 3YO "Dash", but RUBY'S PROFIT is very hard to oppose. She has been thriving this season, winning twice over 5f, including a smart front-running success at Goodwood where she had three of today’s rivals behind her. A 6lbs rise asks another question, but she looks progressive enough to handle it and has the early speed ideally suited to Epsom’s sharp track.
Against The Wind should give a bold sight from the front again. He’s a 5f specialist who has run well in big-field handicaps and still has more to offer. He’ll be a big danger if allowed a soft lead.
For each-way backers, Mademoiselle is interesting. She finished a strong second behind Ruby’s Profit at Goodwood and is entitled to improve for that seasonal reappearance. Overall, this looks set up for Ruby’s Profit to confirm her progress and continue her winning run.
2:45 Epsom
Aston Martin "Dash" Handicap (Heritage Handicap)
The Aston Martin “Dash” promises the usual breakneck pace and conditions could play a big role. VINTAGE CLARETS stands out as a major contender, especially with ease in the ground. A proven performer when there’s cut underfoot, he shaped well at York last time, travelling strongly before fading late. With conditions likely to suit better here and drawn near pace, he looks primed for a big run off an attractive mark.
Jer Batt is another to consider closely. He has been knocking on the door with two solid runs this season and has proven himself on soft ground. The booking of Oisin Murphy catches the eye and signals connections’ confidence. Dream Composer, last year’s winner, should not be discounted despite being higher in the weights this time. His reappearance second was encouraging and he’s a proven late closer at Epsom. In a typically wide-open sprint, Vintage Clarets can come with a well-timed late charge to land the spoils.
3:30 Epsom
Betfred Derby (In Honour Of His Highness Aga Khan IV) (Group 1) (No Geldings)
This year’s Betfred Derby has real depth and looks a stronger renewal than recent editions. DELACROIX appeals most. The son of Dubawi has progressed smartly with two Group 3 wins at Leopardstown this season and is bred for stamina and class, being out of multiple Group 1-winning mare Tepin. He has shown tactical speed and toughness, traits essential for Epsom and looks primed to deliver another Derby for Ballydoyle and Ryan Moore.
Pride Of Arras rates a huge danger. He showed an electric turn of foot to win the Dante at York and shapes as if the Derby trip will suit him perfectly. He’s unbeaten in two starts this season and remains open to further improvement. Ruling Court, the 2,000 Guineas winner, brings the best form at a mile but needs to prove his stamina. For those looking beyond the top three, Damysus and Stanhope Gardens look capable of outrunning their odds in what should be a truly-run, high-class Derby.
ITV Racing Predictions
- 1:00 - Royal Dress (4/1)
- 1:35 - Docklands (2/1)
- 2:10 - Ruby’s Profit (10/3)
- 2:45 - Vintage Clarets (9/1)
- 3:30 - Delacroix (3/1)
