Before the attention turns to McCoy, there are Derby clues at Epsom

RACING returns to Epsom Downs tomorrow, where the Investec Derby Trial takes centre stage.

The world’s greatest Flat race may still be nearly two months away but thoughts are already turning to the £1.3million event, which is staged over this course.

This trial race is unique in that the winner is provided automatic entry into the Investec Derby on June 6. Godolphin have been in flying form and have a strong candidate in Future Empire while Frankie Dettori, who won the Derby in 2007 on Authorized, is set to partner the John Gosden-trained Christophermarlowe. There is another treat because nine-time Derby-winning jockey Lester Piggott will be on hand signing autographs and having pictures taken with racegoers and the iconic Derby trophy.

Sandown Park kicks off its Flat season this Friday with another important Derby trial, the bet365 Classic Trial.

Thirteen horses have been entered in this contest, with an interesting runner from France — Grey Lion. The colt is trained by the brilliant Andre Fabre, who won the Derby in 2011, with Pour Moi.

Meanwhile, all eyes will be on one man at Sandown Park on Saturday — Tony McCoy. The soon-to-be-crowned 20-time champion jump jockey will be retiring after his final ride that day. So far McCoy is confirmed for only one ride, the Paul Nicholls-trained Mr Mole in the AP McCoy Celebration Chase.

With the curtain also closing on the jumps season, champion trainer Nicholls, who has enjoyed another incredible campaign, and champion owner JP McManus will also be crowned.

And champions of an equine sort — Cheltenham Gold Cup hero Coneygree and thrilling Grand National winner Many Clouds —will be parading together.

Grandstand tickets are available for the jumps finale at Sandown on Saturday. To book, visit sandown.co.uk