The crowd was given a masterclass in riding against the clock in this afternoon’s Bunn Leisure Speed Derby, won by Trevor Breen and Beer Hunter.

Luck of the Irish

The Irishman set the stands alight with his blisteringly quick clear round in 93.36 seconds. Watch our interview with him to find out what he thinks was the significant factor that clinched him the class.

Trevor was very nearly knocked from top spot by the last person to go in the class, Ahmed Saber Hamcho riding Orphee De L’Illon. It wasn’t at all obvious that this was the Syrian’s first time in a derby as he blazed round the course like an expert, completing in 94.02 seconds. “I hesitated a bit on the bank,” he said. “This is the first derby of my life and I must admit I was a bit afraid there.”

Last year’s runner-up, Harriet Nuttall, grabbed third place with a clear round in a time of 97.00 seconds with Highland Cruiser II. She’s becoming quite an expert at this class, but doesn’t yet feel ready to face Sunday’s main derby. “I think I’ve just found my favourite class!” Harriet said. “You’ve just got to gamble at every fence to get a good time – my adrenaline was rushing. I’d love to win it, but I’m still learning.”