The 2019 Investec Derby: everything you need to know for the Epsom Classic

The Investec Derby is the richest race in Britain and the most prestigious of the five Classics. It is run at Epsom Downs racecourse over a mile and a half, with this year's contest due off at 4.30pm on Saturday June 1.

The Derby will be shown live on ITV and Racing TV, while you can also stream and bet on the race on the Racing Post website and mobile app.

What is the Investec Derby and why is it so important?

The Derby is a race with a rich history dating back to Diomed's win in 1780.

The race, like all of the other Classics in Britain, is restricted to three-year-olds, so, unlike other prestigious races such as the Arc or Melbourne Cup, you only get one shot at the Derby.

It is a unique test of the thoroughbred, requiring a rare blend of speed, stamina and good balance to negotiate the undulating terrain and camber in the home straight.

It is the most illustrious prize in British racing and perhaps even the world when you take into account the value of the winner from a breeding perspective. Geldings cannot run, so victory at Epsom launches a future stallion career to breed the next generation of Derby prospects.

There have been many famous incidents in the Derby, but the most tragic came in 1913 when Emily Davison, a suffragette who fought for women's rights, was killed when hit by King George V's horse Anmer after she ran onto the track.

Who is running in the 2019 Investec Derby?

The runners and riders are not yet fully confirmed but 15 remain in contention.

Aidan O'Brien, one of the leading Flat trainers in the world, has eight possible runners, with Chester Vase winner Sir Dragonet leading the charge. He could also rely on Broome, Anthony Van Dyck, Japan, Circus Maximus, Cape Of Good Hope and Sovereign.

The key British hopes are Dante Stakes winner Telecaster and Bangkok for King Power Racing.

Which horses have won the race?

Perhaps the most famous winner Shergar won the Derby in 1981, and his ten-length winning margin remains the longest in the race's history. Nijinsky, who struck in 1970, is another of the epic winners through the years – he remains the last horse to claim the Triple Crown of the 2,000 Guineas, Derby and St Leger.

Shergar: winner of the Epsom Derby in 1981Credit: Mark Cranham

Other famous names to land the illustrious prize include Mill Reef (1971), Slip Anchor (1985), Nashwan (1989), Galileo (2001) and Sea The Stars (2009).

Last season's Derby was won by Masar for Godolphin, a memorable first winner in the race for Sheikh Mohammed's operation.

What else is happening at Epsom?

There is plenty of high-quality action on the card for Derby day and the Investec Dash Handicap is one of the most exciting races of the year. A big field will charge down the Epsom hill at a rapid pace –good luck finding the winner.

Derby day: one of the most popular days in the racing calendarCredit: Mark Cranham

Other highlights include the Investec Diomed Stakes and the Princess Elizabeth Stakes, both Group 3 contests.

The fun of the fair

What sets Epsom apart from other big meetings are the huge crowds on the in-field where racegoers can attend for free. Red buses, helter skelters and ferris wheels are iconic images of Derby day.

If you need help finding the winner, the Amato pub is the place to go where every year since the mid-19th century a tips is written on the wishing well outside. Or perhaps you'd prefer the lucky heather.

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