2009 Epsom Derby Betting Preview

On Saturday 6 June 2009 the cream of British thoroughbred horseracing will gather at Epsom Downs racecourse in Surrey to participate in flat racing’s biggest single race – the Investec Epsom Derby.

The best trainers, thoroughbreds and jockeys in the sport will be competing not only for the prestige of winning the season’s most coveted Classic, but also for a share in the whopping £1,25 million Epsom Derby purse.

2009 Epsom Derby betting markets have been active for months, with 2,000 Guineas winner Sea the Stars emerging as a strong favourite in the run-up to the race. Trained by John Oxx, Sea the Stars is currently priced 10/1 by William Hill to claim the Epsom Derby on Sunday.

One of Aiden O’Brien’s numerous entries,  Rip Van Winkle is priced 12/1 on William Hill, and is also a strong contender for the derby although he sustained a slight injury to the leg ahead of the 2,000 Guineas. Brian Meehan’s Racing Post Trophy winner Crowded House is priced 8/1 and remains the top favourite going into the Derby races, Meehan and jockey Jamie Spencer are very confident this year and Crowded House’s performance at the Dante Stakes are crucial ahead of the Derby.

Godolphin and Coolmore studs have produced successful Derby entries in past races, their entries for this year’s Investec Epsom Derby include Kite Wood (priced 14/1 with William Hill) and Freemantle (trained by Aidan O’Brien).

The 2009 Derby could see the first American-trained horse Theregoesjojo entered into the race since 1993. Theregoesjojo debuted at Churchill Downs racecourse last year and finished in 3rd place at the Grade One Florida Derby in 2009 and it would be interesting to see how he fares at Epsom Downs.

For the best in Derby betting, check out the latest 2009 Epsom Derby Odds ahead of the festival.