Vodafone Derby sees record entry for 2005

A record 648 yearlings have been entered for the 2005 Vodafone Derby at the initial entry stage.

The Epsom Classic has attracted 80 more entries than 12 months ago and 14 more than the record of 634 which was set in 1993.

The 2005 Derby, which will take place on June 4, will have a guaranteed prize fund of £1.25m (€1.79m) and is the richest race in Europe.

Members of the Maktoum family have the highest numbers of entries with Godolphin, responsible for the 1995 race winner Lammtarra, accounting for 67 of those engaged while Sheikh Mohammed has 73.

Hamdan Al Maktoum, successful in 1989 with Nashwan and in 1994 with Erhaab, has 37 entered, Maktoum Al Maktoum has nominated a further 32 with both Sheikh Ahmed Al Maktoum and Sheikh Obaid Al Maktoum having one entry each.

The Aga Khan, who has won the race four times, has 27 entries while Dubai-based Saeed Suhail, owner of last year’s winner Kris Kin, is responsible for 11 entries.

Sue Magnier has 32 entries, with all but one being trained by Aidan O’Brien while The Queen of England has six entries – four with Sir Michael Stoute and two with Roger Charlton.

There is a sizeable entry from across the Channel, with Andre Fabre having 20 horses engaged in the race.

“We are very grateful for the continued support of the Vodafone Derby from all the major owners but we particularly welcome the growing number of smaller owners and syndicates who have joined in pursuit of the Derby Dream and very much hope to see them and their horses on Epsom Downs in 18 months time,” said managing director Stephen Wallis.