It's Betfred Derby day at Epsom and our expert has a recommendation in the big race and has cast his eye over the support races from the ITV schedule
Steve Jones
16:05, 06 Jun 2025
Keep your peepers peeled for BLINKY (2.10) in the Betfred 3YO Dash. Epsom’s 5f course is the fastest sprint track in the country and, when the ground is on the soft side, you need to focus your eyes on the stands’ side.
That’s where my fancy is drawn in stall 17 and he is sure to get the red-hot pace he likes in this competitive handicap. He won his first two starts after joining trainer Antony Brittain from Ed Walker and he was the only runner to make any impact from the rear when third at Chester last month.
Everything looks in place for a big run. Have 2pts each-way at 10-1. Sky Bet is paying out on six places.
EXISTENT (2.45) doesn’t win very often but the Aston Martin Dash – over the same course and distance as the 3yo version – will definitely play to his strengths.
He needs a fierce gallop to aim at and there’s no doubt he will get that perfect scenario in this race.
If the forecast rain turns the ground soft it will only help, as it should make it harder for the frontrunners to last out and set it up for those ridden more patiently.
That’s how Stuart Williams’ speedster likes to race and he has twice been unlucky in finishing runner-up in recent starts.
If he gets the breaks, it could all finally come together today. Have 1pt each-way at 14-1. Sky Bet is offering six places.
Aidan O’Brien has dominated the Betfred Derby in recent years but it might pay to follow a horse trained by his son, Joseph, in this year’s contest.
TENNESSEE STUD (3.30) has nearly seven lengths to make up on his dad’s Delacroix on last month’s Leopardstown form but he looked desperately in need of the run.
This stiffer test of stamina is just what he wants and his close second behind Hotazhell in the Beresford Stakes at the Curragh last season reads well. The 40-1 on offer is too big. Have 1pt each-way.
MAXI KING (4.15) will love it if the ground turns soft for the Encore Lifestyle Northern Dancer Handicap and he has a great record when returning from a break.
His stamina should kick in down the straight and his class should not be underestimated. Have 1pt each-way at 20-1. Most bookies are going five places.