BBC Sport 1964 Epsom Derby won by Santa Claus - Commentary by Sir Peter O'Sullevan

[@eugenekeher978]

Santa Claus went in to win the Irish Derby ridden by another Australian jockey Bill Pyers , apparently the owner thought Scobie Breasley , noted for his strong late finishes , gave him too much to do , although he won .

[@paulburke1762]

Hi Eugene , many thanks for your comment. Santa Claus was actually ridden by my uncle Willie Burke in the Irish Derby after Epsom. Bill Pyers rode Sunseeker who finished 3rd in the Irish Derby that year @ 66/1. You are indeed correct to say that Scobie Breasley gave him too much to do even though he won. Scobie was paid his fee and never rode Santa Claus again. Willie Burke gave Santa Claus a no nonsense ride in the Irish Derby and won by an imperious 4 lengths.

[@bendyman_72]

Should have stuck with Scobie. Jocked off for winning the Derby.

[@paulburke1762]

Many thanks for your comment 1950 Mr Universe. There was huge debate back then in 1964 about the merits of both jockeys. In my opinion , Scobie Breasley left his lucky 1 length " heart in the mouth " win , which could have gone horribly wrong , way too late much to the disdain of trainer Mickey Rogers. Hence Scobie Breasley was paid his fee but never rode Santa Claus again. Says it all really. Willie Burke gave a more assured , confident and no nonsense ride to win the Irish Derby at the Curragh by an imperious 4 lengths. Opinion depends on which side of the fence you're on. 👍