LAST MINUTE 2009 EPSOM DERBY BETTING TIPS

We're only a few hours away from the running of the 2009 Investec Derby at Epsom Downs and Sea the Stars continues to cling to his favourite position under a very formidable challenge from Fame and Glory and Rip Van Winkle. Currently listed at Paddy Power at 3/1, Sea the Stars has had a solid outing this year and is expected to be the early leader. For me, however, I'm backing Fame and Glory with the undefeated record of this horse inspiring more confidence that Sea the Stars. Despite Sea the Stars dominating the 2000 Guineas, I'm still not convinced to back him over Fame and Glory. Interestingly enough, Kieran Packman from Timeform disagrees with me completely. In a recent interview, he declared, "Sea The Stars has already shown he has the class and ability to win the Derby, and whilst acknowledging his stamina isn't assured, we don't think his current odds reflect how much improvement his rivals will need to make." Packman also went on to state, "His Guineas win is high-class and rock-solid form, he's a big, lengthy, good sort who towered over most of the Guineas field and he very much has the laid-back disposition to take the Derby experience in his stride."As it currently stands on Paddy Power, the top four horse being backed (in order) are:Rip Van WinkleFame and GloryBlack Bear IslandSea the StarsMasterofthehorseThe undercard at Epsom also looks formidable with 14/1 Dubai Crest being my pick for the 1:25 heritage handicap. I like the favourite Desert Action in the 1:55 Woodcote Stakes and I'm very much leaning towards a forecast bet for the 2:25 Princess Elizabeth Stakes that has Spacious coming in first with Evas Request coming in second. The Investec Dash Heritage Handicap is a mere 5 furlongs and this one is wide open. I like second-favourite Cake in this one and I'm also going to be backing Wotashirtfull for the place bet. Fame and Glory at 4/1 is my tip for the 2009 Epsom Derby.