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2 Jul 2020

Kameko to Emulate Mill Reef in Epsom Derby

There is a buzz in the air and I can understand why. With Coronavirus being a thorn in the side of sports fans across the United Kingdom, many horse racing fans questioned whether they would see the greatest race of them all... 

The Epsom Derby, which is set to be run at 4:55 Epsom, Saturday 4th July. 

Not only is it a race to savour with a 17-stong field but it's a chance to make history for the Balding family as Andrew tries to emulate the success of his father Ian who won the Epsom Derby in 1971 with Mill Reef, ridden by Geoff Lewis, in the ownership of Paul Mellon. 

Their two-length success proved a reference point for Kingclere Stables as this bay colt in the familiar black, gold cross and stripe on cap made a name for himself winning top-class races including the Coventry, Gimcrack, Dewhurst, Derby, Eclipse, King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes, Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe, Prix Ganay and Coronation Cup. 

In fact, he won 12 of his 14 races and second on two other occasions, beaten three lengths by Brigadier Gerard in the 2000 Guineas to arguably the greatest miler ever saw. 

Andrew Balding has seen Kameko make into a potential Derby winner in his five starts to date. This son of Kitten's Joy out of the mare Sweeter Still races in the familiar silks of Qatar Racing Ltd. 

This comfortable winner of the Futurity Trophy Stakes (Group 1) came out all guns blazing with a neck victory at odds of 10/1 in the 2000 Guineas at Newmarket on the 6th June. 

This year's Epson Derby looks a cracking race with Ed Walker's English King heading the betting while Kamako is price 4/1 with leading bookmakers. In opposition is a host of Aidan O'Brien runners. 

Good luck to connections and Kamako who could well put a smile on the faces of all at Kingsclere Stables.