new grandstand and Derby trial at Epsom

Today sees the opening of the new grandstand at Epsom, where there is racing for the first time since the 2008 Derby. The stand, which cost over 27 million GBP, is to be opened by the Duchess of Cornwall (aka Camilla Parker-Bowles) and there is an excellent card, well worthy of the occasion. Main feature is the Blue Riband Stakes for 3yo´s over 10 furlongs at 16.40 CET, an established Derby trial, although those 4 of the 7 runners with Derby entries are all outsiders in the betting on the big race. Most likely winners would appear to be Debussy (John Gosden/ Jimmy Fortune), in the Princess Haya colours, Popmurphy (Karl Burke/ Fergal Sweeney) and German-bred Ouster (David Elsworth/ George Baker). Karl Burke is making very optimistic noises about Popmurphy, who won his only start in good style at Windsor, and he has to make a good show here to justify the trainer´s high opinion.