Crowley Calls It: “Winning the Derby would be a defining moment in my career”

I have great confidence in my horse Eminent. He has a big stride on him, and really covers the ground, and is clearly really talented. He’s stepping up from a mile to a mile and a half, but I don’t have any doubts about him staying the trip. It’s an open race but there are probably only five horses that can win in my opinion. There will be a lot of non-stayers, and stragglers. It could well be a rough race as most of the jockeys will think they have a live chance.

Cracksman and the O’Brien horses are the biggest dangers, and we’ve seen Aidan win it with his second string before. I couldn’t name one horse that I particularly fear, that stands out. I would pick to ride my horse even if I had a choice and he’s going into the race really unexposed. He’s a bit under the radar in my opinion. He won a Craven in a record time, he was close up in the Guineas only beaten 3 lengths by Churchill. He has a similar profile to Derby winners like Sir Percy and Generous in that regard. His profile fits the bill and I’m really hopeful he’ll run a big race.

Winning the Derby would be a defining moment in my career. It is the most important Flat race in the World in my opinion so to win it would be a dream come true.

2.35 Epsom – Epsom Icon

I rode her last time out. She has lost her way a little bit, but she is two from two at Epsom and she won this race last year. She’s a good filly and she ran okay last time out.  Mick Channon has two entries in the race, but hopefully my filly can get back on track and find her form again.

5.15 Epsom – Eddystone Rock

I haven’t ridden the horse, but I believe he was a bit unlucky last time. My agent was quite keen that I ride him. I haven’t watched the race, but will do before I ride him.

Lingfield Evening Rides

I then head to Lingfield for a few rides.  I ride Bizet for John Ryan, and when he books me they are usually fancied to run quite well as he doesn’t book me for also-rans. I’ve ridden a good few winners for John last year, and I even think he backed me to win the Jockeys’ title too. He’s a great guy and does really well with his horses. I don’t know much about Alaskan Star in the maiden at 7.20. He’s only had the one run finishing sixth.

I ride Tanasoq for Owen Burrows in the 8.20. I haven’t ridden him before but he came second last time which was an encouraging run, so hopefully he can go well. In the 8.50 I’m on Katrine a horse I won on for William Knight but is now trained by David O’Meara. I’ve ridden a few winners for the owner and David is great as whenever Danny Tudhope isn’t available he often gives me the leg up.

Jim