Derby outside Diore Lia IS going to run in the Investec Derby after a change his breeder Richard Aylward went back on his decision to withdraw her.
Aylward stated on Wednesday that he would not be running his horse after the British Horse-Racing Authority ruled that apprentice jockey Gina Mangan, who was due to take the ride – would not be allowed to race in the Derby.
However, Aylward has now decided to bring in another jockey – with the highly-regarded Paddy Pilley due to take the ride instead.
Diore Lia – a daughter of Yeats – has not won in her two outings and can be back as big as 1000/1 in places, and is running mainly to help promote Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital.
Aylward told Press Association Sport: “She’s definitely running and Paddy will be riding her.
“Our filly is the people’s champion now and I hope everyone gets behind her.”
The BHA said in a statement that it was “appropriate” to accept Pilley’s declaration aboard Diore Lia.
Bookmakers are offering many markets on Diore Lia, who has captured the public imagination and would be the biggest Classic winner of all time, if she did the unthinkable.
“We think there is more chance of Shergar showing up and winning the race!”
Nicola McGeady
Nicola McGeady of Ladbrokes said: “Diore Lia winning the Derby is our worst nightmare. With so many shops punters being drawn to her huge odds, we are facing our biggest pay-out in Derby history.
“However, at long odds-on to finish last, we think there is more chance of Shergar showing up and winning the race!”