The thoroughbred exists because its selection has depended, not on experts, technicians or zoologists, but on a piece of wood: the winning post of the Epsom Derby - Federico Tesio.

Over the years the Epsom Derby has provided some truly exhilarating racing moments…featuring memorable horses like Nijinsky, Shergar and Galileo and legendary jockeys such as Lester Piggott, Willy Carson and Frankie Dettori.

To help whet your appetite for the Epsom Derby Festival, we’ve selected five of the most memorable Epsom Derby racing moments…take a look below.

1.Shergar – 1981

Winning by 10 lengths in what is still a record for the Epsom Derby, Shergar cruised to victory for Sir Michael Stoute in what will be forever remembered as one of, if not the greatest ride in Derby history.

Credit: The Jockey Club

2.Pour Moi – 2011

19 year old French jockey Mickael Barzalona stunned the racing world in 2011 and will forever be remembered for his outrageously early celebration upon winning The Derby that year. Check out the confidence and charisma here!!!

Credit: The Jockey Club

3.Galileo – 2001

One of the most impressive horses in recent decades, Galileo’s on-track achievements have been surpassed by his incredible achievements as a breeding sire. In 2001 however, he was the horse to beat and nobody could…

Credit: Racing TV

4.Nijinsky – 1970

Such was the brilliance of Nijinsky, he remains the only horse in the past 80 years to win the Triple Crown — the 2000 Guineas, the Derby and the St Leger. Ridden by legendary Lester Piggott, the 1970 Derby will forever be one of the most memorable.

Credit: espmadrid

5.Golden Horn – 2015

Ridden by the brilliant Frankie Dettori for his second Derby victory, Golden Horn’s 2015 victory was an emotional one for the jockey and a memorable one for race fans.

Credit: The Jockey Club

For more information on our racing hospitality packages, click here.