Epsom Derby: Anthony Van Dyck wins showcase race for Aidan O'Brien - BBC Sport
Anthony Van Dyck wins the Epsom Derby, giving acclaimed trainer Aidan O'Brien a record-equalling seventh winner in the prestigious race.
Last updated on .From the section Horse Racing

Anthony Van Dyck has won the Epsom Derby, giving acclaimed trainer Aidan O'Brien a record-equalling seventh winner in the prestigious race.

Jockey Seamie Heffernan rode the 13-2 chance to victory on his 12th attempt, with Madhmoon in second and Japan in third.

O'Brien, 49, trained seven of the 13 runners in the mile-and-a-half race.

"It is incredible and I am so privileged to be part of the team," the trainer said.

Broome finished fourth to give O'Brien three of the top four.
• None Check out the latest results from Epsom

There will be dancing in the streets of Lingfield - well, you know what I mean - after the two Classic trial-races staged on that track, with its topological similarities to Epsom, produced both the Oaks and the Derby winner.

In a scrambling finish during which, in particular, the plucky runner-up Madhmoon and Sir Dragonet, the favourite, both looked as though they would win, Anthony Van Dyck came out on top.

Jockey Seamie Heffernan said he was always confident of success, but there were times that the colt looked up against it.

However, ultimately his stamina lasted out best to increase O'Brien's stranglehold on the sport.

"There are so many people involved that I would like to thank," O'Brien said.

"These races are so competitive and so tough. I'm so privileged, delightful and grateful to the team."

"I knew he would be with me when I needed him," jockey Heffernan said, after his mount won it at the line having been pushed close deep into the final furlong.

"It was a big ask of him, but he's danced every dance. I'm happy."

"He can train all right!" Heffernan said of O'Brien.