BHA say Mangan free for Derby ride on outsider Diore Lia

twENTY horses '“ including the Yorkshire contender Permian '“ have been declared for Saturday's Investec Derby at Epsom.
Mark JohnstonMark Johnston
Mark Johnston

As expected, the Mark Johnston-trained colt was supplemented for the big race yesterday at a cost of £85,000 following his victory in York’s Dante Stakes.

No Yorkshire horse has won the race since Dante in 1945.

The field is headed by John Gosden’s Cracksman, the mount of Frankie Dettori, and Chester winner Cliffs Of Moher who is one of seven possible runners for Aidan O’Brien as the Ballydoyle trainer bids to win the world’s most famous Flat race for a sixth time.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Meanwhile, the British Horseracing Authority has confirmed there are no rules which preclude apprentice Gina Mangan from partnering rank outsider Diore Lia in the Derby.

The 7lb claimer, who has just one winner to her name, has been booked to ride 1000-1 chance Diore Lia in the Epsom Classic as owner Richard Aylward is keen to generate publicity for Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital by running his homebred filly in the main event.

Diore Lia finished unplaced in two maiden starts for Jane Chapple-Hyam but has now switched to the care of John Jenkins, who is Mangan’s boss.

A BHA spokesman said: “There are no restrictions in place which would prevent Gina Mangan from riding in the Derby.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“The BHA and racecourses have the ability to discuss and review race conditions on an ongoing basis if appropriate.”

However Mangan is resolute.

“I know what I’m doing and
 I’m entitled to be there every bit as much as anybody else,” she said.

Almanzor could be a star turn at York twice this summer 
as trainer Jean-Claude Rouget looks to get last season’s European champion colt back on the track.

Winner of the French Derby, Irish and British Champion Stakes in 2016, Almanzor has yet to race this season after suffering from a virus.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

However, the four-year-old has made a full recovery and Rouget is considering a prep run in the Sky Bet York Stakes on July 29 followed by a crack at the Juddmonte International.

Briardale could be bound for Royal Ascot’s Royal Hunt Cup after he turned the Racing UK Zetland Gold Cup into a procession at Redcar for Middleham trainer James Bethell and jockey Paul Hanagan.

William Haggas will consider a tilt at the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot for Dal Harraild following his impressive victory in York’s Grand Cup on Saturday.

Related topics: