Dettori over the moon
Frankie Dettori lost little time in repaying a timely debt to Sheikh Mohammed and Godolphin at Windsor last night following his sensational Classic-winning weekend.
The Italian had his boss to thank for the ride on Vodafone Derby hero Authorized at Epsom on Saturday as he could have been claimed to partner outsider Eastern Anthem.
Camera, television and radio crews all poured into the picturesque Thameside venue to catch a glimpse of the in-demand Dettori as he returned to the saddle and he did not let his supporters down.
Even-money favourite Moon Quest came back to a packed winner’s enclosure following the Scott Wilson Maiden Stakes, and although Dettori declined to do his trademark flying dismount, he did grab a bottle of champagne before spraying the crowd in celebration, much to the delight of all concerned.
He said: “It is not a Derby, but they all count. This was an egg and spoon race, but the horse has won well.
“The last couple of days have been a complete rollercoaster of emotions and so much has happened.
“Horses have a sixth sense and when you are on a high, they can feel you’re energy, adrenalin and positive input.
“It makes a real difference. Everyone has been so supportive and nice to me over the last coupe of days. I couldn’t wait to get to Windsor.”
He then took the course announcer’s microphone and exclaimed: “I love you all!”
Dettori followed up his long-held ambition to land the premier Classic at Epsom with victory in the French equivalent – the Prix du Jockey-Club – on Lawman at Chantilly just 24 hours later.
“It has been a long few weeks and I haven’t slept much, but it has been worth it. It has been an amazing weekend,” said Dettori.
“I sat down and read all the papers and looked at the trophies – it is starting to sink in.
“It is unbelievable as I wait 15 years to win one Derby and then win two in 24 hours. People wait all their lives to win a Derby and I go and win two in 24 hours – it is madness.
“France was a bit of a blur as I was still riding high on the back of Epsom.”
And on the respective merits of Authorized and Lawman, Dettori added: “I think it would be very unfair to compare the two horses. One race was over a mile and a half (Authorized), one was over 10 furlongs (Lawman).
“Epsom is usually the best Derby. Only time will tell which is the best but if I had to stick my neck out, I’d say Authorized was the best right now.”
