The Epsom Derby is widely regarded as the greatest flat race in the world. It took place this year on 2nd-3rd June during the Derby Festival when NRT Horse Transport was once again proud to provide its services to a number of the leading contenders.
History
The first running of the Derby Stakes took place in 1780 and was open to 3-year-old colts and fillies at 50 guineas each. Of the nine runners that took part, victory was taken by Diomed, the 6-4 favourite.
Since then, the Epsom Derby has established itself as Britain’s richest horserace and is the middle leg of the Triple Crown which includes the 2,000 Guineas and the St Leger. The race is run over a distance of one mile, four furlongs and 6 yards and is one of Britain’s greatest national sporting events. It has taken place at Epsom Downs Racecourse every year since its inception except during the world wars when it was run at Newmarket.
Epsom Derby 2017
The 2017 Epsom Derby was the 238th running of the race and saw the biggest upset for 43 years when rank outsider, Wings of Eagles, took victory in the £1.5m race. A brilliant result for trainer Aidan O’Brien and jockey Padraig Beggy.
This fantastic race was the highlight of the two day Derby Festival which saw hundreds of horses running across all races. Transporting all of these horses from not only across the country, but also from across the world is logistically a huge task and we would like to take this opportunity to say a big well done to everyone involved.
NRT Horse Transport at the Epsom Derby
NRT Horse Transport safely and securely transported a number of the leading contenders over the course of the weekend and we want to say a massive thank you to NRT lead driver Kirsty Sexton and her team. Everyone involved really pulled out all the stops to ensure the smooth and efficient passage from airport to Epsom for our international clients, especially when facing such tight time restraints.
Overall the Epsom Derby Festival was a hugely successful event for all the NRT’s notable passengers. Well done to all involved!
To find out more about the services we offer, and how we can provide safe, secure and comfortable horse transport, give us a call on 01638 663155, or click here.