Derby stars

The original was the English Derby, first run at Epsom Racecourse outside London in 1780. Derby Day in the English spring soon became one of Britain’s high days. Sydney’s Australian Derby, now run in the autumn, traces its origins to 1861, the same year as the first Melbourne Cup, six years after the first Derby at Flemington. The Kentucky Derby, the most coveted race in the United States of America, began in 1879. So many winners of these classics have gone on to become the great thoroughbred sires of future generations.

A Derby winner carries true prestige.

The Penfolds Victoria Derby is officially open to three-year-old colts, geldings and fillies. In practice, the best staying fillies aim instead for the VRC Kennedy Oaks. But in colonial days, nine of the first 22 winners of the Derby happened to be fillies.

These horses clinched their Victoria Derby victories for a variety of reasons, ranging from their remarkable speed, unwavering endurance, remarkable adaptability and sheer determination. Each triumph etched a mark in the annals of Australian horse racing history.

These horses clinched their Victoria Derby victories for a variety of reasons, ranging from their remarkable speed, unwavering endurance, remarkable adaptability and sheer determination. Each triumph etched a mark in the annals of Australian horse racing history.

Briseis (1876): A remarkable filly who made history by winning the Victoria Derby, Melbourne Cup, and VRC Oaks in the same week, showcasing her exceptional talent and versatility.

Auraria (1895): Although she finished third in the Victoria Derby, Auraria went on to win the Melbourne Cup and the VRC Oaks, displaying her extraordinary staying power and resilience.

Phar Lap (1929): Phar Lap is one of the most iconic racehorses in Australian history. His victory in the 1929 Victoria Derby was an early sign of his greatness. He dominated the field, showcasing his immense talent and speed.

Skipton (1940):  The last Derby winner to win the Melbourne Cup just three days later, following in the footsteps of other champions like Hall Mark, Trivalve, Patrobas, Prince Foote, Poseidon, Merriwee, Newhaven, Martini-Henry, Grand Flaneur, and Chester.

Tulloch (1957): Tulloch’s victory in the 1957 Victoria Derby was significant because it was one of his first major wins. He went on to become one of the greatest Australian racehorses ever, with numerous Group 1s to his name. He was one of the mighty champions next to Phar Lap, earning his place in the Australian Racing Hall of Fame for his incredible achievements.

Dulcify (1979): Dulcify was a remarkable stayer and displayed great determination. His Victoria Derby win was memorable because he overcame a challenging field and showed his ability to perform well in longer races.

Mahogany (1993): Mahogany was a versatile horse who excelled in both sprint and distance races. Mahogany surged ahead of his competitors in the 1993 Derby, winning by seven lengths.

Nothin’ Leica Dane (1995): Gave an exceptional performance, fending off Octagonal. Following this victory, the Gai Waterhouse-trained horse finished as runner-up in the Melbourne Cup just a few days later. Throughout his four-year-old campaign, he remained highly competitive in several of the major races.

Elvstroem (2003): Ollie’s third Derby win, with the jockey and horse snatching the lead metres from the finishing post to claim victory by a length and a quarter.

Efficient (2006): Efficient displayed immense staying power and toughness. His Victoria Derby win was a glimpse of his later Melbourne Cup victory in 2007.

Lion Tamer (2010): Lion Tamer was known for his strong finish and staying ability. His victory in the 2010 Victoria Derby was impressive because he showcased his ability to accelerate in the final stretch and outclass the field.

Fiveandahalfstar (2012): Fiveandahalfstar's victory was notable because he won a tough race and showed his potential as a staying horse. He continued to perform well in subsequent races, making his Derby win significant.

Tarzino (2015): Tarzino displayed exceptional staying power and class. He went on to have a successful career in Australia and New Zealand and was considered one of the top stayers in his generation.

Ace High (2017): Ace High was a tough and consistent stayer. His victory in the 2017 Victoria Derby showcased his ability to handle the demanding distance and his competitive spirit.

Warning (2019): Warning came from behind to win, demonstrating his ability to finish strongly.

Special mentions

Spearfelt (1924), Comic Court (1948) and Delta (1949):  Derby winners who later triumphed in the Melbourne Cup as older horses, becoming part of racing royalty.

To view a list of all Group 1 winners, visit the Group 1 Honour Roll. 

Penfolds Victoria Derby Day is the first day of the Melbourne Cup Carnival. It's steeped in history and traditional where only the best of the best come to race. It's when Melbourne embraces spring and Flemington is awash of elegant black and white, with a splash of Penfolds red. To the winner of the Penfolds Victoria Derby, a Magill Cellar 3 barrel will be presented. Crafted and cellared at Penfolds Magill Estate in South Australia.