Epsom Downs Racecourse is one of the most unique and remarkable racecourses in the world and is host to the Group 1 Derby, often reputed as the greatest Flat race in the world. Epsom is also home to the Group 1 Oaks, Coronation Cup and the Epsom Dash.
The track is horseshoe-shaped as opposed to round and on the Derby course, runners face a steep uphill climb from the stalls. Challenging undulations and a famous, sharp bend known as `Tattenham Corner? make the Derby the ultimate test of the thoroughbred due to the need for balance, stamina, speed and mental agility. Epsom?s sprint track is downhill and one of the fastest five furlongs in the world.
There is no other racecourse like Epsom Downs anywhere in the world and it is unlikely such a unique track would ever be built today. The racecourse is located only an hour from London?s bustling city centre.
Horse racing has taken place at Epsom Downs Racecourse since as early as 1661. From 1684, Epsom appointed a Clerk of the Course to maintain the track and to ensure optimum racing conditions. By 1730, Epsom hosted two race meetings per year.
In 1779, two of the most important Classics would be born. The 12th Earl of Derby organised a race for three-year-old fillies at Epsom which was named The Oaks, after his country house which he leased in Woodmansterne, Surrey. Following the success of the inaugural running of the Oaks, Lord Derby decided a new race should be introduced at Epsom to include three-year-old colts and fillies, which would become the Derby, the most coveted contest of the Flat season.
A major part of Epsom?s history is the infamous and dramatic death of suffragette Miss Emily Davison in 1913. The passionate protester, dressed in a black coat and a black hat, slipped under the rail during the Derby and threw herself in front of the King?s horse, which ultimately led to her death, at Tattenham Corner to raise awareness of women?s rights.
