2008 Irish Derby
The Irish Derby is a Group 1 flat race for three-year-old thoroughbred colts and fillies, run over a distance of one mile, four furlongs. It was first run in 1866, making it the oldest of the five Classic Irish races - which also include the Irish 1000 Guineas , Irish 2000 Guineas , Irish Oaks and Irish Field St Leger.
The Irish Derby is run on the third day of the Irish Derby Festival, at the historic Curragh Racecourse. It is without question the highlight of the Irish racing calendar. Rated as one of the best derby races in the world, it attracts Europe ’s finest thoroughbred racehorses - often including the winners of the English and French equivalent races, the Epsom Derby and the Prix du Jockey Club.
Many previous Irish Derby winners have gone on to claim the title of leading three-year-old in Europe . Past winners have included the likes of Santa Claus, Nijinsky, Grundy, Troy , Shergar, El Gran Senor, Shahrastani, Salsabil, St Jovite, Commander In Chief, Montjeu, Sinndar, Galileo, High Chaparral and Hurricane Run.
As well as being known for top-notch racing, the Irish Derby Festival is famous as one of the biggest parties of the racing year. It is characterised by an especially festive atmosphere, with live entertainment, competitions and post-race festivities all part of the experience. In recent years, the festival has been attended by record crowds of over 40,000 people.
The prize fund for the 2008 Irish Derby is the largest for any Irish race, at 1.5 million euros. Between 1986 and 2007, the Irish Derby was sponsored by Budweiser. A new sponsor has yet to be found for 2008.
2008 Irish Derby Festival Schedule
For 2008, the Irish Derby Festival will run from Friday 27 June to Sunday 29 June, at the Curragh.
Friday features the Kildare Village Derby and special evening racing, with live music and barbeques to add to the festive atmosphere.
Saturday is Ladies’ Day, with spectacular prizes for the best-dressed and most glamorous. It features the Group 1 Audi Pretty Polly Stakes.
Sunday is the festival highlight, featuring the 143rd running of the classic Irish Derby, as well as six supporting races. On Sunday, the first race will be run at 1:30pm.
Start considering who you think will come out tops at the 2008 Irish Derby, and check 2008 Irish Derby betting for betting tips and hints.
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