As he finishes his Betfred Derby contender Ambiente Friendly, James Fanshawe has acknowledged that he is "a little bit more on edge" than usual.
Since obtaining his licence in 1990, the seasoned trainer has had great success in major races all around the world. In 1991, he quickly saddled his first runner in the Epsom championship, Environment Friend, who was similar to Ambiente Friendly and owned by Bill Gredley.
It has taken Fanshawe 33 years to find another horse he feels deserves a spot in an event he puts above all others, though, after the Dante Stakes winner finished a distant 11th of 13 horses behind Generous in the most renowned Flat race in the world.
“It’s a real privilege to have a horse good enough to be going to the Derby with a chance,” Fanshawe said on a media call hosted by the Jockey Club and the British Champions Series on Tuesday. “The yard is up for the challenge and everyone’s doing their best. Hopefully, everyone is paying attention and I’m being nice to them! The build-up to the Derby is important and it’s probably the most important race that we’ve had a runner in. We’re trying to go with the flow and make sure the last four days go smoothly, while also taking in what a special occasion it is because the Derby is the premier Classic, we’ve got to remember that, and we’re really thrilled to be having a runner in it. If I didn’t say I wasn’t a little bit more on edge (I’d be lying), you react to things a little bit differently than you would normally. I try not to drink too much coffee and that sort of stuff, but I’m always a good sleeper. I may wake up a bit early in the morning, but sleeping is not a problem – I’ve got lots of other problems, but not sleeping!”