The Epsom Derby is the most famous horse race in Britain -- and, arguably, the world.
Dating back to 1780, it has spawned many imitations -- 140 countries now have a "Derby," perhaps most notably in the U.S. state of Kentucky. Indeed, the word "derby" is now generally used to describe any race for three-year-olds.
"To me it's the most significant race in the world," says trainer Andrew Balding, whose Kingsclere stables have yards named after great Epsom Derby winners of the past, such as Ormonde and Flying Fox.
"There are more valuable races, but you can't buy 200 years of history. It is a very special event for anyone who is British. It's still very much the race that everyone wants to win."
The Epsom Derby counts the Queen of England as one of its biggest fans. She has attended all but two Derbies during her reign and will be there on June 2 as she kicks off her weekend of Jubilee celebrations with a visit to Epsom Downs.
The race is named after its founder, the 12th Earl of Derby who, along with his friend Sir Charles... Source/Origin >> Read More
