One of the biggest days in the horse-racing calendar – is almost upon us, with the 2023 Epsom Derby due to be run on Saturday June 3.
The Surrey-based race, which always takes place on the first Saturday in June, is more than 240 years old, with a long history of prestige – and is often considered one of the country’s most famous and important horse racing events.
It’s often a big occasion for the Royal Family too. A number of Queen Elizabeth II’s horses ran in the race during her lifetime, and last year’s Derby fell during the Platinum Jubilee weekend – although her Majesty did not attend in person.
Although none of the Queen’s horses ever won the Epsom Derby, one of her horses, Aureole, came second in 1953, just days after her Coronation.
Given the royal legacy of the race, will any of King Charles’ horses be taking part this year?
Does King Charles have a horse at the Epsom Derby 2023?
As it stands King Charles will not have a horse in this year’s Derby.
It had been reported that the monarch would have a horse, Reach For The Moon, running in one of the other races at Epsom that day, the Betfred Diomed Stakes.
However the four-year-old Bay Gelding was not declared for the race two days ago, which is the deadline by which all runners must be declared – and therefore will not be taking part.
Another of the King’s horses, Slipofthepen, had also been rumoured for the Derby – but it’s been confirmed he will not be running that one in the race either.
What time is the Epsom Derby?
The Epsom Derby takes place earlier than usual this year, with the race beginning at 1.30pm.
Normally it takes place at 4.30pm but it has moved this year to avoid a clash with the FA Cup final between Manchester United and Manchester City, which kicks off at 3pm.
The race will be preceeded by the supporting race, the Diomed Stakes, at 12.50pm.
You can watch both races on ITV, with live coverage beginning at 12.30pm, ahead of their live FA Cup final coverage starting at 2.05pm.
Francesca Cumani and Ed Chamberlin are presenting coverage of the race, along with analysis from Jason Weaver and Johnny Murtagh – while Richard Hoiles is on hand to provide commentary.
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