With no regard for other racers’ aspirations, Lambourn secured a decisive victory in the 246th running of the Epsom Derby! The trusty steed gave its trainer Aidan O’Brien, a record-extending 11th triumph in the historic race. The rider Wayne Lordan, led from the front and maintained a commanding pace throughout the contest. Once established a pace he was comfortable with, the rest was for the history books. Such an accomplishment marks a significant career milestone for Lordan, who claimed his first British Classic.
The tempo of the race was furious as Lambourn entered the race at 13-2, and wasted no time asserting his dominance on the field. Right from the get-go, Lordan pushed the colt to the front, quickly opening a lead that proved insurmountable for the rest of the runners. And they sure did try to defeat the gap.
It was a glorious day for racing fans on and off the field, as bets and cheers were placed all around! Using all of their knowledge and help from horse racing odds, fans were ecstatic to see their chosen champions gallop towards their desired outcome, but there can be only one first place.Even prominent and fancied contenders such as Delacroix and The Lion In Winter were not able to match the tempo set by the leader, and the rest were no better.
Lambourn handled the course with composure and determination, pacing the horse just right. O’Brien confirmed his strategy from the outset, as it was to set a relentless pace. It was a difficult decision, but ultimately one that paid off when the field failed to close the gap. The Ballydoyle-trained colt responded well to every cue from his rider, maintaining rhythm and focus through the final furlongs.
The Epsom Derby is unique in its demanding horseshoe-shaped track at Epsom Downs. Lots of such examples have influenced how horse racing in the U.S is, and for a good reason. The design is there to test speed and stamina, demanding a well-rounded horse. Favourite Delacroix, ridden by Ryan Moore, was unable to mount a serious challenge and faded from contention in the final stages. Ruling Court, the 2,000 Guineas winner, was withdrawn ahead of the race due to forecasts of poor weather, though significant rain did not arrive until after the event concluded.
Jockey Wayne Lordan, who has been based at Ballydoyle for eight years, praised the horse and the team behind him. Returning from a serious injury just over a year ago, Wayne was buzzing to be back riding and described the win as a career highlight. With full rights, such an event was a serious handicap, one that could only be overcome with hard work and dedication. Lordan stated that once Lambourn had secured the lead with his ears pricked, he felt few would be able to challenge. And what a feeling that must have been!
The absence of a Ruling Court removed one of the key contenders from the lineup and may have altered the tactical landscape. Such actions become part of the rich history surrounding horse racing. Just like the recently released stamps marking the 350 years of iconic Greenwich, the 2025 Epsom Derby was a reminder of the incredible background this track and all of its horses have.
The race signifies the unpredictability and drama that define the British flat racing season. For Lordan and O’Brien, the victory underscored the value of preparation, trust, and tactical boldness on one of racing’s most prestigious stages.
