Derham excited about Gamble raid at DRF
Harry Derham pictured with rider Paul O'Brien
© Photo Healy Racing
Harry Derham saddled his biggest winner to date when Washington landed the €100,000 Bar One Racing Handicap Hurdle at Fairyhouse two months ago and he’s hoping for another successful raid with Queens Gamble at Leopardstown on Sunday.
Queens Gamble is set to carry topweight in the €100,000 Irish Stallion Farms EBF Paddy And Maureen Mullins Mares Handicap Hurdle and Derham has secured the services of Rachael Blackmore on the talented mare.
The daughter of Getaway won a Listed bumper at Cheltenham for Oliver Sherwood and recorded the latest of her four career victories when also successful at Listed level over hurdles at Taunton just over a year ago.
She made a pleasing return at Newbury this term and Derham couldn’t hide his excitement in conversation with broadcaster Dave Keena saying, “I’m incredibly excited to run Queens Gamble at the DRF on Sunday.
“Since her fine second in the Gerry Feilden at Newbury this has been the plan. The race conditions suit and the little step up in trip I think is a positive for her.
“She’s been in grand form since then and I’m really, really looking forward to running her.
“Jonny Burke is unable to ride her as he’s riding for his retained yard, so Rachael Blackmore is taking over. To have a modern day great on one of your horses is absolutely fantastic.
“Rachael’s record is absolutely astonishing and she knows how to ride big winners around Leopardstown so we are incredibly excited to have her on Queens Gamble.”