The Investec Derby represents the inimitable pinnacle of the British turf season and will boast a top-class field of thoroughbreds for the 237th running on Saturday.
The undulating course, uphill climb and left-hand sweep around Tattenham Corner combine to make this the ultimate test of these stars – not to mention the pressure-cooker atmosphere of being roared on by the crowds filling the stands and swamping the infield.
Derby Day is by no means the only feature of the Investec Derby Festival, which kicks off in style with Investec Ladies Day, the highlight of which is the fillies’ Classic, the Investec Oaks, over the Derby course.
This year sees a couple of changes to the usual order of running, with the Investec Woodcote Stakes moving to become the curtainraiser on Ladies’ Day, making way for the Princess Elizabeth Stakes to become Derby Day’s second race.
HRH Queen Elizabeth (Getty Images)
Additionally, the Coronation Cup is renamed for this year as the Queen Elizabeth II Coronation Cup (sponsored by Investec) to celebrate Her Majesty’s 90th birthday.
