Kahyasi, Second Stringer of Aga Khan, Wins Epsom Derby by 1 1/2 Lengths

Ridden by Irishman Ray Cochrane, Kahyasi, the second-string 11-1 shot of the Aga Khan, won the 209th Epsom Derby, British thoroughbred racing’s premier event Wednesday.

In a tight finish, Kahyasi held on to finish 1 1/2 lengths ahead of 14-1 shot Glacial Storm, ridden by Michael Hills in the 1 1/2-mile race for 3-year-olds. Doyoun, also owned by the Aga Khan and ridden Walter Swinburn, was third.

Doyoun, a 9-1 shot who earlier this year won the 2,000 Guineas, was the same distance behind the winner followed by disappointing 5-2 favorite Red Glow with Pat Eddery aboard.

As the leaders turned into the home stretch, Glacial Storm looked a likely winner with Red Glow apparently unable to find a clear run. But Kahyasi, unbeaten in his three previous races, grabbed the lead in the last eighth of a mile.

Glacial Storm challenged to the line but, despite Hills’ efforts, victory went to Kahyasi and his Italian-born trainer, Luca Cumani.

It was the first victory in the Derby for both Cumani and Cochrane but the third for the Aga Khan following Shergar in 1981 and Shahrastani in 1986.

The race was worth a total of $899,100, with the winning owner receiving $548,525.

Cochrane had been given the choice of riding Kahyasi or stable companion Kefaah and his decision proved correct.

One of the major disappointments of the race was Unfuwain, ridden by jockey Steve Cauthen.

After a strong showing in the first half of the 12-furlong race, Cauthen’s mount faded.

Minster Son, ridden by Willie Carson who bred the horse, was another who failed to live up to expectations. He also faded in the stretch.