The Epsom Derby was born at a dinner party held in 1778 and was named after the flipping of a coin between Sir Charles Bunbury and the Earl of Derby, to determine which name would be adopted. As Derby won, it was therefore his name which was to grace the Epsom Oaks.
This is not the original Earl of Derby, but one named after Derby’s estate that hosted the event in Carshalton. The difference between the Espsom Derby and Epsom Oaks is that the latter is open to 3 year old fillies thoroughbreds, though both are held on the same owner’s property.
The fun in bringing the fillies is that they may not appear in the next racing season and therefore makes betting relatively tough. Oaks only allows fillies, this is the case with 1,000 Guneas. These young horses are also difficult to control making it more fun. Bridget owned by Lord Derby was the first filly to win the race. Oaks have organized many events worldwide including in Ireland, France and Italy. It has impacted on the whole world across generations.
The Epsom website has more information on the history or if you plan to attend a race in London it offers information on accommodation, local travel airline companies. If you are planning a trip you are sufre to have a great time and of coming from afar you can combine a day out at the races with business or tourism. These are historic Derbies that you simply can’t miss.
Let’s try and understand the origin of the Derby, although it may sound obvious as a race, it is actually a name. It is named after a man called Edward Smith-Stanley, a politician born in 1752. Officially he was known as the Earl of Derby.
So how is that connected to racing?
In a dinner party in the 1700s, after an American blow on Britain by a famous document from the Americans, two dinner party friends (Charles Bunbury and Smith-Stanley) tossed a coin to bet who will name a planned horse race of new sweepstakes. Bunbury is said to have either lost the toss or politely allowed his host to win. This has been the reason why people do not want to take stock car racing to Bunbury.
Epsom Downs is the most visited racecourse in London, England. Visitors come to see the races, riders and horses. Other side events such as weddings, seminars, parties are held there too.
The website on Epsom Down’s track in London has lots of information and user friendly guides. Other events have been inspired by the word "Derby" especially races in all parts of the world. The Irish and Kentucky derby’s are very popular. If you do a search you will be surprised at how much interesting knowledge you will find. Even more interesting is the origin of each of the races. You can also find more information from the websites of the actual organizers of the races. Better still, by attending some of the historic races, you will not only have a great experieince but alos have the opportunity to learn more.