Red Derek

Trained by Lisa Williamson at Kelsall in Cheshire, Red Derek races most often in Class 5 events — the lowest standard of competitive racing — where he has won 1 of 17 races, a win rate of roughly 6 percent. He performs best over longer distances, specifically the 1 mile 3 furlong to 1 mile 4 furlong range, where he has won once from 14 attempts. His regular jockey, Kieran O'Neill, has ridden him eight times and enjoyed a 12 percent win rate in the saddle, better than Red Derek's overall return, though still a win rate that reflects a horse competing at his level. With Williamson's yard having sent out six winners this season, Red Derek remains part of a functioning operation, though he has become the sort of reliable hand who finishes in the placings more often than he threatens to win. Still active and racing as recently as yesterday, he is the kind of veteran who may never win again but remains sound enough to turn out week after week in search of that elusive second victory.