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Dettori's story hits a new high on Golden Horn

Frankie Dettori celebrates winning the Investec Derby at Epsom
Frankie Dettori celebrates winning the Investec Derby at Epsom Frankie Dettori celebrates winning the Investec Derby at Epsom

FRANKIE Dettori hailed his victory aboard Golden Horn in the Investec Derby at Epsom on Saturday as the “most thrilling moment” of his glittering career.

The 44-year old placed the win of the John Gosden-trained colt above both his inaugural Derby triumph with Authorized in 2007 and his ‘Magnificent Seven’ when he went through the card at Ascot in 1996.

Dettori said: “I told my dad yesterday after the race that in my 28 years of riding that was my most thrilling moment, even more so than Ascot.

“Maybe because I’m older and realised how important it was, or the fact that I am running out of years. It was really special.

“The Derby is the best race in the world and everybody wants to win it. This time I enjoyed it more. As you get older, you appreciate the moment and how difficult it is to win the race.

“It was quite emotional. The win has still not sunk in. The whole build up and anticipation, it’s a big deal.

“Only when I woke up this morning with the kids and the dogs in bed did I pinch myself that I had won the Derby and it was not a dream.”

While now able to bask in the glory, Dettori admitted he did endure one moment of worry aboard the 13/8 favourite before storming to a three-and-a-half length victory from stablemate Jack Hobbs.

Dettori said: “When I hit a flat spot two-and-a-half furlongs out, I did think maybe the stamina had run out.

“However, when I gave him a smack he responded and when we got against Jack Hobbs I knew then that he was going to win. It felt like he pulled the handbrake off and it was an impressive turn of foot.”

Dettori was able to ride Golden Horn despite his boss Sheikh Joaan Al Thani having a runner in Moheet, who beat just two home.

And the Italian said Sheikh Joaan was the first in a long line of

well-wishers to congratulate him on his triumph.

He explained: “Sheikh Joaan was the first to text and congratulate me and I said that the next one we should do it together. What a gentlemen he is to let me off his horse, as he knew how special this was. I can’t speak highly enough of him.”

Not only did Dettori pay thanks to Sheikh Joaan, but also to Gosden, the man who in many ways helped him become the world-famous rider he is today.

Dettori said: “I was nervous on Wednesday and Thursday, but as we got closer to the race I was fine. I’ve ridden in the Derby 20 times and you know you have to plan to stay with it and don’t let the occasion get to you.

“John Gosden is a great pillar to have on your side, he has got a reassuring way that I thrive off. Like I said yesterday, he was a father figure to me and he has given me a lot of advice and I really don’t know where those 20 years have gone.”

Over the past few years Dettori has made the headlines for both the right and wrong reasons, but although going through several dark days he stressed he always believed in himself to come through the tough times.

Dettori said: “One press person said to me that I have had a rollercoaster career, I said ‘no, I’ve had a colourful career’. I have tried to be myself. Everybody has ups and downs, the most important thing is to be positive and look forward.

“I have had a few knockers on the way, those that like to kick you when you are down, but I never doubted myself. Yesterday was a personal satisfaction.

“I’ll be honest with you, when you reach 50, for a jockey it is about the average age you stop. I am going to enjoy the next six years and if I can squeeze in another Derby that would be great, but maybe I am getting a bit greedy.”