The Epsom Derby 2008

Epsom, UNITED KINGDOM: A racegoer smokes a cigar on the second day of the annual Vodafone Derby horse race at Epsom Downs, Surrey, 02 June 2007. AFP PHOTO/CARL DE SOUZAThe Epsom Derby is one of the highlights of the international thoroughbred flat racing calendar. The historic Group 1 race is one of only six Classics fixtures run in the United Kingdom each year, and forms the second leg of the English Triple Crown.

The Epsom Derby represents all that is best about thoroughbred horseracing, combining pageantry, style and heritage with one of the most highly anticipated betting events of the year. With over a million pounds in prize money on offer the Epsom Derby is a crucial event for both trainers and punters.

The Epsom Derby race is a top rated Group 1 event and is open to 3 year old colts and fillies, although in practice colts tend to dominate the race, making filly entries a rarity. The race distance is 1 mile 4 furlongs and 10 yards. The Epsom Derby race is run during the first week in June as part of the two day Derby Festival.

Epsom Derby History

The Epsom Derby was first run in 1780, following a year after the first running of the Oaks on Epsom Downs racecourse. The race was named after the Early of Derby who had secured this honour by virtue of a coin flip with the owner of the first winner of the Oaks, Sir Charles Bunbury.

The Epsom Derby was originally run over a mile before being lengthened in 1784 to the distance of 1 mile and 4 furlongs. During the first world war the Epsom Derby was moved to Newmarket racecourse where it was run as the Derby Stakes until the war had ended.

Epsom Derby Betting

The 2008 Epsom Derby will be one of the year’s most exciting betting opportunities as punters have the opportunity to put money on some of the best thoroughbred racehorses in the world. The attention given to the Epsom Derby by the media sees betting markets swell to enormous proportions, providing rich pickings for smart punters.

Before picking an Epsom Derby 2008 winner, punters watch the qualifying events for the Derby closely and pay attention to the horses that show at the 2,000 Guineas. Don’t miss out on the Epsom Derby betting pages and hints available on this site before visiting William Hill to take advantage of top Epsom Derby betting options and odds.

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