Epsom Derby Preview

The Derby takes place on Epsom Downs and is run over 1m4f. Broadcast live on Channel 4 we take you through the runners in betting order.

Dawn Approach 6/4 (BetVictor)
Winner of the 2000 Guineas and unbeaten in seven starts. Is 8lbs clear of his nearest rival on official ratings. Only chink in his armour is that he hasn’t raced beyond a mile, but he should handle the step up in trip.

Battle Of Marengo 6/1 (Stan James)
The pick of the Ballydoyle runners on jockey bookings. His form seems to have reached a plateau; awarded Racing Post Ratings of 114-116 on his two starts this season.

Ocovango 8/1 (Bet365)
Andre Fabre has taken the same path to Epsom as he did with Pour Moi. However Ocovango doesn’t look as forward as his 2011 champion. His win at Saint-Cloud was rated 6lbs below Pour Moi’s victory. 

Ruler Of The World 8/1 (Bet365)
Won the Chester Vase by six lengths but he didn’t beat much and is therefore hard to judge.

Chopin 12/1 (BetVictor)
Beating everything out of sight in Germany and the dark horse in the race.

Mars 14/1 (BetVictor)
Stayed on nicely in the 2000 Guineas and the step-up in trip will help but he finished 8.75 lengths behind Dawn Approach, which is a big gap.

Libertarian 16/1 (Paddy Power)
Surprise winner of the Dante at 33/1 written off as a fluke in some quarters, but he won at York fair and square.

Festive Cheer 20/1 (BetVictor)
Only beaten a neck at Longchamp, if he’d won he’d be half the price.

Galileo Rock 33/1 (Bet365)
Struggled to make an impact when raised in class.

Mirsaale 100/1 (Bet365)
Won on his last start at Epsom therefore handles the track but lacks the class of a Derby winner.

Flying The Flag 150/1 (BetVictor)
Well beaten the three occasions he stepped up to Group 1 company.

Ocean Applause 750/1 (Betfred)
Connections will enjoy the day out but he has no chance.