Epsom Classic double for O’Brien as Lambourn runs them ragged in the Derby
A forceful front-running ride from Wayne Lordan provided the rider with his first career Epsom Derby victory and trainer Aidan O’Brien a record-extending 11th success in the race as Lambourn made every yard in the world-famous Classic.
Having previously landed a trial for the race when defeating Lazy Griff (Protectionist) in the Chester Vase Stakes (Gr 3, 1m 4.5f) last month, the son of Australia was sent off a well-supported 13-2 chance and the backing proved to be correct.
Bustled along to gain the lead from his draw in stall ten, Lambourn consistently upped the tempo throughout under Lordan until, rounding the home bend, the pair shot clear and maintained a relentless gallop to beat the Charlie Johnston-trained Lazy Griff again – this time by three and three-quarter lengths.
There was a further length back to the Joseph O’Brien-trained Tennessee Stud (Wootton Bassett) in third.
“I knew I’d gone a good gallop but his ears were pricked and I knew he had plenty left,” Lordan, who was riding in the Derby for the ninth time in his career and had been narrowly beaten aboard Whirl (Wootton Bassett) in Friday’s Epsom Oaks (Gr 1, 1m 4f), said.
“He’s a horse we always felt would stay. I just thought that anybody who would get to me would have to stay well and it would be tough for them.
“My horse was going forward underneath me so I thought it would take a fair one to come and get him.
“This is one of the greatest races, for any jockey that starts out all they ever want to do is win a Derby. I’m in a lucky position that I get to ride a horse like this.”
Delacroix (Dubawi), who was sent off the 2-1 favourite under Ryan Moore, never threatened from the rear of the field to finish ninth of the 18 runners.
O’Brien, who now has four Classic victories in Europe so far this season already, said: “Wayne knew he’d stay, he was always going to go forward and was expecting someone to come and challenge him. I’m delighted for Wayne.
“I’m only a small part of a big team. Everyone puts in so much work, I cannot tell you. All I do is observe it everyday, I can’t tell you the privilege it is for me to be dealing with everybody.
“There’ so many people along the way that I don’t mention. Australia was a great Derby winner, that’s what this horse is, uncomplicated and genuine.”
Saturday’s Epsom Derby was run in honour of His Highness Aga Khan IV, who died in February. The Aga Khan won flat racing’s Blue Riband contest on five occasions and also won the Epsom Oaks last year with Ezeliya (Dubawi).