Epsom Derby Tickets

Epsom Derby
Epsom Derby is one of the most prestigious thoroughbred horse race in the world. This annual event takes place on the first weekend in June at Epsom Downs Racecourse, Epsom, Surrey, England.

Preceded by the 2,000 Guineas and followed by the St Leger, the race is one of five classics that are the cornerstones of Flat racing in England.

It has had a long and remarkable history, having first been run in 1780. What sets the Derby apart from other sporting events is that it takes place on Epsom Downs, and both the course and the setting are totally unique.

The Downs is a public area and so entry to the centre of the course is free. The free entrance encourages thousands of people to flock there on the day of the event. Audience can enjoy the racing as well as the massive funfair that is set up especially for the occasion.

For the horses, the course is reminiscent of a helter skelter with twists, turns, rises and falls. This mile and a half contest makes it the ultimate physical and mental test of a race horse. Many Derby participants are prepared for the race by running in one or more of the recognized Derby Trials.

Derby winners often go on to compete for the big international races later in the season. These races include the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe in France and the Breeders' Cup in the United States.

The Derby had its origin at a celebration following the first running of the Epsom Oaks in 1779. Edward Smith Stanley's horse ?Bridget' had been victorious in the race. Stanley was the 12th Eatl of Derby who achieved his first success in the race in 1787 with Sir Peter Teazle.

The initial four runnings of the race were over a distance of 1 mile but this was stretched in 1784 to the current distance of 1 mile 4 furlongs. In 1991, the official distance was 1 mile 4 furlongs and 10 yards (2,423 m).

To some, the Epsom Derby is a crazy race, run on a crazy track, at a crazy time of the year. The Derby passage tests a jockey's skills to the limits.

It is scarcely surprising that those riders who have the best Derby records are legends of the sport such as Lester Piggott and Willie Carson. If trainers happen to be sway, the Derby would be run on a flatter track, and with a five-day entry to spare them their blushes.

For spectators, the Epsom Derby has long been known for its unique party atmosphere. It is for the full range of social classes on view. Those preferring a better view of the races can hire double decker buses. These buses line the rails up the home straight right from Tattenham Corner to the winning post.

The race is big business too, also for bookmakers. Horses get their riders not only a big winning prize amount but also add to their own value.