Epsom Derby 2023: Auguste Rodin Beats King of Steel in Thrilling Epsom Derby Finish
Who Won The Derby 2023?:- The Epsom Derby, the most prestigious race in British horse racing, witnessed a thrilling finish on Saturday as Auguste Rodin, ridden by Ryan Moore, edged out King of Steel, a 66-1 outsider, by a length to claim the coveted trophy. The victory was Moore’s third and trainer Aidan O’Brien’s ninth in the classic race, which dates back to 1780.
Who Won The Epsom Derby 2023?
The 244th edition of the Epsom Derby was historic for several reasons. It was the first time the race was held on a Saturday afternoon, rather than its traditional slot on the first Wednesday of June, to avoid a clash with the FA Cup final between Manchester rivals United and City. It was also the last Derby for Frankie Dettori, the legendary jockey who announced his retirement at the end of the season.
Dettori, who had won the Derby twice before, in 2007 and 2015, was hoping for a fairy-tale ending on Arrest, the 4-1 favorite. However, his chances faded early on as he struggled to cope with the undulating track and finished 10th out of 12 runners.
“The track was too much for him. He could not run down the hill and his legs were everywhere, bless him. Our chances were done a long way out,” Dettori said after the race.
A thrilling finish
The race was dominated by two horses: King of Steel, a surprise contender who led from the start, and Auguste Rodin, a 9-2 shot who chased him down relentlessly. The pair pulled away from the rest of the field in the final furlong and battled it out in a nail-biting finish.
Moore, who had won the Derby with Workforce in 2010 and Ruler of the World in 2013, showed his experience and skill as he urged Auguste Rodin to surge past King of Steel in the final strides and win by a length. White Birch came third, four lengths behind, while Artistic Star was fourth.
“It was a great race. King of Steel ran very well and made it hard for us. But Auguste Rodin is a very special horse and he showed his class today. I’m delighted for Aidan and everyone involved,” Moore said.
A remarkable achievement
The win was a remarkable achievement for O’Brien, who became the most successful trainer in Derby history with nine wins, surpassing the record of eight held by Robert Robson, John Porter and Fred Darling.
Auguste Rodin wins the @Betfred Derby!
— Racing TV (@RacingTV) June 3, 2023
Classic redemption for the Deep Impact colt after Guineas disappointment with victory in the world's most famous Flat race.
NINE Derby triumphs for trainer Aidan O'Brien 👏 #DerbyFestival #ディープインパクト #オーギュストロダン pic.twitter.com/kb9ZyY8WK5
O’Brien had four horses in this year’s Derby: Auguste Rodin, White Birch, Artistic Star and Golden Age. He praised Moore for his brilliant ride and said he was proud of all his horses.
“Ryan gave him a fantastic ride. He’s a genius. He knew exactly what to do and when to do it. He’s one of the best jockeys in the world,” O’Brien said.
“Auguste Rodin is a very special horse. He has a lot of speed and stamina and he loves this track. He’s been improving all the time and we’re very happy with him.”
“I’m very proud of all our horses. They all ran very well and gave their best. It’s a great honor to be part of this race and to have won it nine times. It’s a dream come true.”
A protest incident
The race was marred by a protest incident that occurred before the start. Police arrested 19 people in connection with plans to disrupt the Derby by animal rights activists from Animal Rising, who had previously invaded the course last year.
A protester managed to enter the racecourse and ran onto the track before being dragged away by police officers. The incident did not affect the race itself, which started on time.
The Epsom Derby is one of the five classics of British flat racing, along with the 2,000 Guineas, the 1,000 Guineas, the Oaks and the St Leger. It is also part of the Triple Crown, which consists of winning all three races for colts: the 2,000 Guineas, the Derby and the St Leger.
Auguste Rodin will now aim to become the first horse since Nijinsky in 1970 to complete the Triple Crown, having already won the 2,000 Guineas in May. The St Leger, the final leg, will take place in September at Doncaster.
