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The Start for the Derby - from a photograph by Mr. Herbert Watkins, 1864. Creator: Unknown
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The Start for the Derby - from a photograph by Mr. Herbert Watkins, 1864. Creator: Unknown
The Start for the Derby - from a photograph by Mr. Herbert Watkins, 1864. 'It is a singular Turf anomaly that the greatest race in the world should be run over perhaps the worst and most dangerous course we have...The hill stops the pace so much...that the bad ones are not half weeded out by the time they reach [Tattenham] Corner. Hence jockeys too often race their horse's heads off to get well round it in the front rank, for fear of the beaten horses falling back and knocking them out of their stride at the critical moment...However, the Grand Stand folk like to see the race from end to end; and so they have their way, and many a fine animal has its chance jeopardised in consequence...For a long time no one cared to see the start; and a few years ago, we believe, that there was only an audience of three. People are more curious now on the point, since the starting question came so prominently before them, and last week there was a regiment of spectators, fully a thousand strong. As might have been expected, eight false starts proved an immense boon to them. It was after a false start that Mr. Herbert Watkins succeeded in catching one of his instantaneous photographs, in which the grey of Warrior was remarkably conspicuous'. From "Illustrated London News", 1864
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Media ID 38686035
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EDITORS COMMENTS
**The Start for the Derby - A Moment Frozen in Time**
In this photograph, taken by Mr. Herbert Watkins in 1864, we witness a pivotal moment at Epsom Downs as the horses prepare to thunder into action for the prestigious Derby race. The scene is set amidst chaos and anticipation, with jockeys urging their steeds forward while others wait patiently in line.
The image captures the frenetic energy of the starting gate, where eight false starts had already taken place that day - a boon for spectators eager to witness this iconic event. Amidst the commotion, Warrior's grey coat stands out prominently as it readies itself for the off.
This photograph not only provides a glimpse into one of horse racing's most revered events but also offers insight into the era in which it was taken. The article accompanying this image highlights concerns about safety and spectator experience at Epsom Downs, demonstrating how attitudes towards sports have evolved over time.
**Credit:** Herbert Watkins (photographer), 1864; Heritage Images
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