Adam Kirby booked for John Leeper Derby ride
Jockey to team up with Ed Dunlop’s runner at Epsom.
Adam Kirby is looking forward to the big-race ride on Cazoo Derby hopeful John Leeper at Epsom next month.
Kirby will be on board Ed Dunlop’s colt, currently among the most prominent British hopes in the ante-post market for the Classic on June 5.
He has also already ridden John Leeper on the gallops, and is confident he will be suited by his Epsom assignment.
A clutch of other high-profile jockeys had been linked with the possibility of riding the son of the mighty Frankel and Dunlop’s Snow Fairy – who won the 2010 Oaks for the same owners.
But confirming reports that he will be in the saddle, Kirby told Sky Sports Racing: “I’m really pleased with that – thanks to all connections.
“I’m looking forward to him.”
John Leeper, named after Dunlop’s father and training great John, has won both his starts this season – under Hollie Doyle and most recently William Buick, in a Listed race at Newmarket last weekend.
I've sat on him, and he's a lovely moving horse
He pulled hard in that slowly-run contest over 10 furlongs, but Kirby expects a different set of circumstances in the Derby.
“I’ve sat on him, and he’s a lovely moving horse,” he added.
“I wouldn’t describe him as keen – he just covers a lot of ground.
“I hope it’s a true-run race, and it will be fine.”