Epsom Derby Preview

The final field is in and 13 runners will go to post at 4:30pm on Saturday for the Epsom Derby. As you would expect, Aidan O’Brien has a strong contingent with seven runners, giving him just over half of the field. However, the draw has not been kind to his most fancied runner, and neither has the predicted weather forecast, which may swing the betting and see the favourite change.

Sir Dragonet is the favourite right now, but soft ground would be in his favour and the forecast for between now and the race looks good. The ground is currently good, but expected to quicken and become good to firm on the day. On top of that, he has stall 13, the widest of them all, and he will need a master ride from Ryan Moore to get the right positioning around the unique bends Epsom has.

He did win the Chester Vase in great style though, a well-established Derby trial and his owners have paid £85,000 just for him to be here, so they clearly think this horse is a very talented individual who can go close to winning the race. He is currently 5/2 favourite with Mansionbet, although the weather and draw may cause him to drift before the day.

The horse that could take his place at the head of the market is Broome, who has plenty in his favour. He won the Derrinstown Trial over 1m2f in Ireland and looked in desperate need of 1m4f on that day. He won despite the shorter trip, and he is going to take a huge step forwards now encountering another couple of furlongs. He has a great draw in stall 8, and there is plenty to like about his chances.

The horse with the best form in the race for me is Telecaster, although like the favourite Sir Dragonet, he has been dealt a poor draw. He is on the inside in stall 2, and Oisin Murphy will need to be right at his best to get him into a good position. However, his Dante win was very impressive, and that was just the third start of his career, meaning it is likely there is even more to come. He is another to have been supplemented for £85,000 and even though the draw is against him, he is simply too good to ignore.

Epsom Derby Best Bets

• Telecaster to win @ 5/1 with Mansionbet

Horse Racing Betting Offer

Mansionbet – Money back if beaten by a head or less

There is nothing worse than being beaten by a small margin. However, this Saturday at Epsom, betting with Mansionbet will soften the blow if that happens. On all races at the track, they are offering money back as a free bet up to £25 if your selection is second and beaten by a head or less. This is a great way to cover your bets at the big meeting on Saturday, including in the big race, the Epsom Derby.

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