Adam Kirby called up to ride leading Derby fancy John Leeper at Epsom

Adam Kirby has picked up the coveted spare ride on Ed Dunlop's Listed Fairway Stakes winner John Leeper in next month's Cazoo Derby at Epsom.

Kirby, who has had only one ride in the Epsom Classic, will be going full circle on June 5 as he rode his intended mount's dam Snow Fairy in her juvenile season in 2009.

Named after the trainer's late father, John Leeper was cut to 7-1 fourth favourite (from 16) for the Derby after overcoming Tasman Bay last Saturday when ridden by William Buick.

With Buick unavailable due to Godolphin commitments, the ride on the son of Frankel had been up for grabs. After much discussion, owner Cristina Patino has opted for Kirby to partner the colt, whose dam won the Oaks in 2010.

Cazoo Derby entries and betting

Dunlop said: "Adam Kirby has been booked to ride John Leeper in the Cazoo Derby. He's riding better than ever at the moment and has ridden winners in the past for the owner. He also rode Snow Fairy as a two-year-old so it's nice to make the connection again."

Kirby, who partnered Saffron Beach to finish second in the 1,000 Guineas this month, said: "I rode Snow Fairy as a two-year-old and she turned out a champion so let's hope John Leeper can go the same way.

"He's got plenty of size and scope about him and has a lovely attitude. He also has a lovely action so I can't see why he won't handle the track and it's a great ride to have.

"I've only had one ride in the Derby before, which was for Saeed bin Suroor, and he ran a respectable race but hopefully this one will knock at the door."

Cazoo Derby
Sky Bet: 15-8 Bolshoi Ballet, 7-2 High Definition, 7 John Leeper, Hurricane Lane, 8 Mohaafeth, 10 Third Realm, 14 Van Gogh, 16 Youth Spirit, 20 Mac Swiney, 25 bar

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