Kentucky Derby win for Big Brown

Big Brown takes the honours by four-and-a-half lengths

Big Brown looked a potential US Triple Crown hero when powering to a fine victory in the Kentucky Derby under a suoperb ride from Kent Desormeaux.

But the race was marred by a fatal injury to runner-up Eight Belles.

Overcoming his outside 20 draw to such great effect, Big Brown (2-1) was the undoubted star at Churchill Downs.

Cruising into the lead on the turn for home, the favourite forged clear of his rivals to give trainer Rick Dutrow Jr his third Kentucky Derby victory.

There was, however, a sad postscript within minutes of the race as the the filly who finished second was put down on the track after breaking both her front ankles.

She was a clear second but never really threatened the brilliant winner, who became the first horse from stall 20 to take the Derby since Clyde Van Dusen in 1929.

A delighted Desormeaux, previously successful in the Derby on Real Quiet (1998) and Fusaichi Pegasus (2003) said: "He broke listening to the crowd.

"He was attentive to the cheers and just started adding power to the stride he has, and he's got some power."

As for the second leg of the Triple crown, the Preakness Stakes, Dutrow added: "We're ready to roll now and I can't wait to get there."

It was a sombre end to the weekend for Eight Belles trainer Larry Jones, who won Friday's Kentucky Oaks with Proud Spell.