Epsom Derby 2002 Result

Aidan O'Brien completed his second Derby triumph in style was a historic one-two in the 2002 Epsom Derby. High Chaparral battled bravely under Johnny Murtagh to beat stable mate Hawk Wing in a nail biting finish, providing the Irish trainer with his fifth success in the last seven British classics.

Murtagh made his move from the rear about four furlongs from home, surging past the front-runner Moon Ballad about a quarter of a mile from the finishing line. Mick Kinane moved into a position to challenge aboard Hawk Wing and despite a valiant effort the race favourites suspect stamina seemed to fade in the final two furlongs, going down by two lengths at the finish. Twelve lengths behind the main contest, Moon Ballad from the Godolphin operation finished a respectable third at 20/1.

The highly rated Fight Your Corner finished fifth, three places ahead of Mark Johnston's other Derby entry Bandari. But the Derby jinx continued for Frankie Dettori, finishing seventh aboard Naheef. The race was to end in tragedy however, with Coshocton falling in the final furlong and having to be destroyed due to the resulting injury.

Bookmakers were delighted with business on the first Derby to be run since Betting Tax was abolished. Reports from William Hills indicate betting turnover on the 2002 Epsom Derby smashed previous turnover records and with Hawk Wing attracting substantial support it was a good day for the bookie.