Sea Scout Springs Stunning Epsom Upset to Enter Derby Frame
Outsider Claims Narrow Victory in Blue Riband Trial
There was a dramatic twist in the Listed Blue Riband Trial at Epsom as Sea Scout, an unconsidered 40-1 shot, threw his name into the Derby mix with a narrow triumph over Trinity College. The result, confirmed following a stewards’ inquiry, has kept Classic aspirations alive for the Crisford team heading towards June 7.
Ridden with confidence by Harry Davies, the Sea The Stars colt struck the front in the final furlong and clung on resolutely to win by a head. Trinity College, making his Epsom debut, hung to his left in the closing strides, prompting officials to review the finish before allowing the result to stand.
Stewards Give Result the Green Light
The inquiry concluded that Sea Scout would retain the race, despite the incident between the front two. The progressive colt had previously signed off his juvenile season with a maiden victory at Lingfield, but this marked a significant leap forward in class and performance.
Reacting to the surprise success, William Hill swiftly cut Sea Scout’s Derby odds from 66-1 to 33-1, signalling growing belief that he could be a serious contender at Epsom in June.
Davies Doubles Up in City and Suburban
It proved to be a landmark afternoon for Harry Davies, who completed a notable double when guiding City Of Delightto victory in the historic City and Suburban Handicap. Trained by David Menuisier, the four-year-old followed up his Doncaster seasonal reappearance win with another strong-staying performance, scoring by half a length after a well-timed late run.
Connections are now eyeing a swift return to Epsom on Oaks Day, with the gelding continuing to impress following his progressive form.
Egan Claims Family Triumph in Metropolitan
There was a poignant win for David Egan in the Great Metropolitan Handicap, as he succeeded where his father Johnhad come close, steering Asgard’s Captain to an emphatic victory.
Twelve months earlier, the five-year-old had came in third on Derby Day 2024 in the Northern Dancer Handicap under John Egan. This time, under David and off the same 84 mark, he surged to a decisive four-and-a-half-length success over race favourite Master Builder, trained by Menuisier.
The win offered a special moment of family pride in one of British racing’s oldest and most traditional handicaps, capping off a memorable day on the Downs.
