Jockey compares himself to Del Boy Trotter after ‘bluffing’ his way to success

An elated jockey likened himself to one of Britain’s favourite TV comedy characters after winning the £550,000 Betfred Oaks on Friday.

“He who dares wins,” was one of the signature catchphrases of Derek ‘Del Boy’ Trotter from the BBC classic ‘Only Fools And Horses’. Irishman Chris Hayes, 36, having only his second ride in the Epsom Classic, dared to dream on the Aga Khan filly Ezeliya.

And everything was cushty after his wish was granted when she stretched clear of Godolphin’s Dance Sequence to claim a second Oaks victory for veteran trainer Dermot Weld, 43 years after he last won the race with the Lester Piggott-ridden Blue Wind.

There was no joy for the King and Queen, who visited Epsom to see their horse Treasure contest the race, but she beat only one horse home after racing towards the front.

Hayes, who stood up in his irons in celebration as he crossed the line, told ITV Racing: “It was Lester Piggott that rode Blue Wind and I’m no Lester Piggott.

“Look at her, she’s a queen, a strong-travelling filly. I just wanted to keep momentum on her and angle her out at the top of the straight. I knew she’d stay, I knew she had class.”

Hayes won the apprentice championship three times before joining the senior ranks in which he is now enjoying the most productive spell of his career since becoming Weld’s first choice rider.

Not that he was prepared to accept any praise. “I’m like Del Boy Trotter now,” he said. “I’m just bluffing my way through.

“I’m delighted to get the support I’m getting. Dermot Weld is a master trainer. I’m riding for brilliant owner and some lovely pedigrees. It’s a dream come true.”

Weld, 75, has been a training pioneer who has captured many of the biggest races around the world, including the Melbourne Cup twice.

He added the Derby to his big race haul with Harzard triumphed in 2016, also in the famour Aga Khan silks. He said: “It’s a very special day. The competition is very keen nowadays. We are very fortunate to have a filly for His Highness as good as this.

“Patience has paid dividends with her. I said to Chris to ride her with confidence, take his time, get her into a rhythm before he let her go. I was never worried about the distance. She is a stayer with speed.

“That’s my 25th English or Irish Classic. Classic races are the pinnacle. Give me a Classic any day of the week. That’s what you are remembered for.”