Dettori lands Derby on Authorized

Authorized justified favouritism at Epsom to finally banish Frankie Dettori's Vodafone Derby hoodoo.

Peter Chapple-Hyam's brilliant colt had far too much pace and class for runner-up Eagle Mountain. Aqaleem was third, with Lucarno fourth.

Roared on by the huge crowd packing the famous Surrey Downs, Authorized emerged victorious to give Dettori a first Derby triumph in 15 attempts.

Sent off the 5-4 market leader, Authorized's success was undoubtedly one of the most popular victories in recent Derby history.

Dettori's mount had shown he was a genuine contender for top honours on his seasonal reappearance in the Dante Stakes at York and this performance was even more emphatic.

Sitting well off the early pace set by Kid Mambo, the son of Montjeu was ridden patiently in the early exchanges.

Indeed, Authorized was 10th of the 17 runners as the field approached the descent to Tattenham Corner.

Dettori's partner was travelling like a dream, however, and cruised up to fifth two furlongs from home.

A few gentle reminders from his jockey put the race to bed as Authorized skipped away to a five-length verdict from Eagle Mountain. Aqaleem finished two and a half lengths further away.

Although most of the plaudits will go to Dettori, fulsome praise must be afforded to Chapple-Hyam, who has now won two Derbys following Dr Devious in 1992.