The final of Malta’s top Flat Racing honour, the Mediterranean Derby, will be held today at the Marsa racetrack. The trophy is being sponsored by McDonalds for the first time ever.

Intially known as the United Service Challenge Cup, its first edition was held in 1889, and it is currently the oldest honour that is still contested in the Maltese horse-racing scene. Its participants have always included the topmost quality of flat racing horses which graced our racecourse. The elaborate workmanship in the manufacture of the trophy as well as its age contribute to its popularity.

Derby day in the late 19th and early 20th century, used to be an important occasion in the Maltese social calendar attracting numerous spectators, with officers in uniform and their ladies in Ascot-style gowns and hats. Many popular horses which bring back fond memories to racing enthusiasts have inscribed their name on this prestigious trophy, and quite a number have managed to land the trophy more than once, e.g. in the distant past, Centaur in the late forties, Bright Hopper in the mid-fifies, TWA in the early sixties and others, recently Just The Best in the last two years, and Managing Director with the largest number of wins (five between 2002 and 2006).

With the increase in popularity of flat racing during the last decade, and the help of such sponsors like McDonalds, the Mediterranean Derby has regained its traditional prestige.

This year’s seven finalists are:

1. Kimberly Downs, 2. Uncle Bertie, 3. Just the Best, 4. Buttermilk, 5. Ollie Fliptrik, 6. Mayfair Princess, 7. Adorabile Med.