The build-up to the Derby is always an intense and emotional time for trainers, but for Thady Gosden, this year’s edition carries a particularly special significance. With two promising contenders preparing to line up for one of the most coveted events in the Flat racing calendar, the anticipation is as high as ever. Damysus and Nightwalker were out for a familiarisation gallop at Epsom Downs this morning, giving their team a valuable opportunity to assess how the colts respond to the unique demands of the course.
Although Thady has only officially been sending out runners in partnership with his father, John Gosden, since 2021, he’s been steeped in the world of elite racing for much longer. His involvement with Clarehaven Stables has provided him with a deep understanding of the tradition, pressure, and glory tied to winning a Derby. While memories of Benny The Dip’s triumph are understandably hazy due to his young age at the time, Thady recalls more recent campaigns vividly—particularly the success of Golden Horn and the impressive effort of Jack Hobbs.
Getting the horses out onto the Downs ahead of race day offers a rare but invaluable moment to ease them into the quirks of a course that’s unlike any other. According to Gosden, the session was peaceful, the conditions ideal, and both colts handled the experience well. The dry spell hasn’t compromised the surface, thanks to careful work by the ground staff, with the turf offering just enough give to be both safe and conducive to strong workouts.
The design of the Epsom track, with its undulations and cambers, presents a unique test that can’t be replicated elsewhere. That’s why a pre-race gallop is so crucial. Both Damysus and Nightwalker appeared composed and responsive, each showing intelligence in how they tackled the experience. When they came together during the work, the pair finished with a pleasing burst, which only added to the optimism in their camp.
Each horse brings a slightly different profile into the Derby mix. Damysus, the more relaxed of the two, is beginning to show increasing awareness and responsiveness with each run this season. That growing sharpness has been evident to his rider, James Doyle, who was notably satisfied with the way the colt moved and adapted to the track this morning. Damysus has been on a clearly defined path towards this race, with careful planning and support from his connections.
Nightwalker, on the other hand, has been developing in quieter strides. Transferred from Sir Michael Stoute’s yard late last year, he has needed time to settle into his new routine, but the team is confident he’s progressing in the right direction. Thady highlighted his calm attitude and tractability, traits that are vital when competing in such a high-pressure environment. From his breeding and the way he’s shaped in training, Nightwalker is expected to relish the step up in distance, and his steady improvement through the early part of the season has not gone unnoticed.
Both runners took part in the Dante Stakes, often a telling trial for Derby hopefuls, and each emerged with credit—Damysus securing second, while Nightwalker stayed on for fifth. Neither was pushed hard that day, and their finishes suggested there could be more to come over a longer trip. For the Gosdens, the Dante has historically been a springboard to Derby glory, and they’ll be hoping this year follows suit.
Whether either colt will ultimately prevail remains to be seen, but their trainer is clearly optimistic. With key attributes like composure, adaptability, and the potential to stay the mile and a half distance, both Damysus and Nightwalker are shaping up as genuine contenders. In a couple of weeks, the picture will become clearer, but for now, the signs are encouraging—and there’s every reason to believe that either could make a significant impact on Derby Day.
