BENBATL

FIVE facts about the best Flat race in the world

No grey horse has won the Derby since Airborne in 1946

The race would have been called the ‘Bunbury’ had the Earl of Derby not won a coin toss

More than twice as many Derby winners have had names beginning with ‘S’ than with any other letter

Workforce holds the record for the fastest winning time of 2minutes, 31.33 seconds in 2010

The 1895 Derby was the first horserace in the world to be recorded on film OUTSIDERS win races every day in the sport of kings.

But there are ‘outsiders’ and there’s Diore Lia, a maiden filly who is available at odds of 1,000-1 to win the world’s greatest Flat race.

Diore Lia has made just two competitive appearances, beating only one rival on her Epsom debut before finishing fifth of eight at Lingfield.

Richard Aylward, who bred the horse, is realistic as to her chances when declaring, “I don’t think she’ll finish last.” Not exactly a ringing endorsement, is it?

God knows racing has more than its fair share of pompousity in its ranks, however I do agree with those that say Diore Lia’s inclusion shows scant regard for what is the most prestigious race in the world.

The owners say they will donate any prize money to Great Ormond Street.

The simple fact is she won’t win any prize money.

The Derby should be about the best racing the best.

This is the Derby, not a Donkey Derby.