Royal Ascot stars set for Glorious return

  

Royal Ascot's star performers are being readied to run next during the five days of Glorious Goodwood, which gets underway on Tuesday, July 30, and concludes on Saturday, August 3.

The highlight of the Glorious Goodwood is the Group One QIPCO Sussex Stakes over a mile on Wednesday, July 31. The £300,000 contest is set to be one of the races of 2013 with Jim Bolger's QIPCO 2000 Guineas hero Dawn Approach likely to clash with Toronado for a third time this season.

Toronado, trained by Goodwood's top trainer Richard Hannon, had a wind problem when fourth in the Newmarket Classic, but proved himself a colt of the highest calibre when running Dawn Approach to a short-head in the St James's Palace Stakes last week.

Further spice to the mile showpiece could be added by Aidan O'Brien's easy Queen Anne Stakes victor Declaration Of War and runner-up Aljamaaheer, trained by Roger Varian.

Irish 1,000 Guineas heroine Just The Judge is also among the 49 entries for the QIPCO Sussex Stakes but trainer Charlie Hills is eyeing a tilt at the £200,000 Group One Markel Insurance Nassau Stakes, the fillies' feature over just short of 10 furlongs on Saturday, August 3.

The daughter of Lawman, just touched off by Sky Lantern in the QIPCO 1000 Guineas on her seasonal return in May, was beaten four and a quarter lengths into third behind the same rival in the Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot on Friday.

Hills said today: "We are looking at the Markel Insurance Nassau Stakes for Just The Judge. She has come out of the Coronation Stakes in very good form and I am pleased with her.

"Obviously, the draw didn't help at Ascot but she still ran a very good race. She got caught a bit wide and I would say that cost her second.

"We have been looking forward to stepping her up in trip and I don't think a mile and a quarter will be a problem for her. I can even see her getting a bit further than that next year."

Trainer John Gosden has indicated The Fugue could return to defend her Markel Insurance Nassau Stakes crown after making a pleasing seasonal return when third in the Prince Of Wales's Stakes on Wednesday, June 19, while Investec Oaks runner-up Secret Gesture may drop back in trip for trainer Ralph Beckett.

About Glorious Goodwood

The five-day festival this year runs from Tuesday, July 30 until Saturday, August 3 and is certain to be the highlight of the season. It is the perfect place to enjoy everything that is British and sums up what summer should be. It is the place to be and be seen. The fashion is elegant and floaty, Goodwood heritage with a dash of panache. Ladies and Gentleman dress in the latest fashions and gather shade from their hats and Panamas.

The meeting, held at the world's most beautiful racecourse, has always attracted the very best performers from the international world of horseracing such as Frankel, who graced the Downs for the last two years to the delight of racegoers who come from far and wide to experience the unique atmosphere.

For tickets please visit: www.goodwood.co.uk

ROYAL ASCOT 2013 - ALL THE WINNERS

ROYAL ASCOT 2013 - WINNERS

Day One, Tuesday, June 18

2.30pm QUEEN ANNE STAKES

DECLARATION OF WAR (USA) (Sue Magnier, Michael Tabor, Derrick Smith, Joseph Allen) Aidan O'Brien IRE 4-9-00 Joseph O'Brien [6] 15/2

3.05pm KING'S STAND STAKES

SOLE POWER (Sebena Power) Edward Lynam IRE 6-9-04 Johnny Murtagh [14] 8/1

3.40pm ST JAMES'S PALACE STAKES

DAWN APPROACH (IRE) (Godolphin) Jim Bolger IRE 3-9-00 Kevin Manning [5] 5/4 Fav

4.25pm COVENTRY STAKES

WAR COMMAND (USA) (Joseph Allen, Sue Magnier, Michael Tabor, Derrick Smith) Aidan O'Brien IRE 2-9-01 Seamie Heffernan [15] 20/1

5.00pm ASCOT HANDICAP

WELL SHARP (JP McManus) Jonjo O'Neill 5-9-10 Fran Berry [16] 9/1

5.35pm WINDSOR CASTLE STAKES

EXTORTIONIST (IRE) (Qatar Racing Limited) Olly Stevens 2-9-03 Johnny Murtagh [28] 16/1

Day Two, Wednesday, June 19

2.30pm JERSEY STAKES

GALE FORCE TEN (Michael Tabor, Derrick Smith, Sue Magnier) Aidan O'Brien IRE p3-9-01 Joseph O'Brien [4] 9/2 Fav

3.05pm DUKE OF CAMBRIDGE STAKES

DUNTLE (IRE) (Flaxman Stables Ireland Ltd) David Wachman IRE 4-8-12 Wayne Lordan [1] 10/3

3.45pm PRINCE OF WALES'S STAKES

AL KAZEEM (John Deer) Roger Charlton 5-9-00 James Doyle [9] 11/4

4.25pm ROYAL HUNT CUP

BELGIAN BILL (PJL, Cooper & Baker) George Baker pt5-8-11 James Doyle [6] 33/1

5.00pm QUEEN MARY STAKES

RIZEENA (IRE) (Sheikh Rashid Dalmook Al Maktoum) Clive Brittain 2-8-12 James Doyle [16] 6/1

5.30pm SANDRINGHAM HANDICAP

ANNECDOTE (Tom Edwards & Partners) Jonathan Portman 3-8-07 Richard Kingscote [3] 11/1

Day Three, Thursday, June 20

2.30pm NORFOLK STAKES

NO NAY NEVER (USA) (Linda Shanahan & Ice Wine Stable) Wesley Ward USA b2-9-01 Joel Rosario [8] 4/1

3.05pm RIBBLESDALE STAKES

RIPOSTE (Khalid Abdullah) Lady Cecil 3-8-12 Tom Queally [5] 9/2

3.45pm GOLD CUP

ESTIMATE (IRE) (The Queen) Sir Michael Stoute 4-8-11 Ryan Moore [5] 7/2 Fav

4.25pm BRITANNIA HANDICAP

ROCA TUMU (IRE) (Roca Tumu Syndicate) Joanna Morgan IRE 3-8-12 Billy Lee [15] 20/1

5.00pm TERCENTENARY STAKES

REMOTE (Khalid Abdullah) John Gosden 3-9-00 William Buick [5] 9/4 Fav

5.35pm KING GEORGE V HANDICAP

ELIDOR (John and Julia Aisbitt) Mick Channon 3-9-00 Martin Harley [10] 20/1

Day Four, Friday, June 21

2.30pm ALBANY STAKES

KIYOSHI (Qatar Racing Limited) Charles Hills 2-8-12 Jamie Spencer [20] 8/1

3.05pm KING EDWARD VII

HILLSTAR (Sir Evelyn de Rothschild) Sir Michael Stoute 3-8-12 Ryan Moore [8] 15/2

3.45pm CORONATION STAKES

SKY LANTERN (IRE) (Ben Keswick) Richard Hannon 3-9-00 Richard Hughes [16] 9/2 Jt-Fav

4.25pm WOLFERTON HANDICAP

FORGOTTEN VOICE (IRE) (Susan Roy) Nicky Henderson 8-9-02 Johnny Murtagh [7] 12/1

5pm QUEEN'S VASE IN MEMORY OF SIR HENRY CECIL

LEADING LIGHT (IRE) (Derrick Smith, Sue Magnier, Michael Tabor) Aidan O'Brien IRE p3-9-04 Joseph O'Brien [5] 5/4 Fav

5.35pm BUCKINGHAM PALACE HANDICAP

LIGHTNING CLOUD (IRE) (Hambleton Racing Ltd XVIII) Kevin Ryan 5-8-13 Neil Callan [32] 25/1

Fifth Day, Saturday, June 22, 2013

2.30pm CHESHAM STAKES

BERKSHIRE (IRE) (HRH Sultan Ahmad Shah) Paul Cole 2-9-03 Jim Crowley [21] 16/1

3.05pm HARDWICKE STAKES

THOMAS CHIPPENDALE (IRE) (Sir Robert Ogden) Lady Cecil 4-9-00 Johnny Murtagh [8] 8/1

3.45pm DIAMOND JUBILEE STAKES

LETHAL FORCE (IRE) (Alan Craddock) Clive Cox 4-9-04 Adam Kirby [15] 11/1

4.25pm WOKINGHAM HANDICAP

YORK GLORY (USA) (Salman Rashed & Mohamed Khalifa) Kevin Ryan 5-9-02 Jamie Spencer [22] 14/1

5pm DUKE OF EDINBURGH HANDICAP

OPINION (IRE) (Highclere Thoroughbred Racing - Herring) Sir Michael Stoute 4-9-00 Ryan Moore [10] 8/1

5.35pm QUEEN ALEXANDRA STAKES

CHIBERTA KING (The Pink Hat Racing Partnership) Andrew Balding 7-9-02 Jimmy Fortune [16] 8/1

 

Final standings for the QIPCO Top Trainer Award & QIPCO Top Jockey Award

QIPCO ROYAL ASCOT TOP TRAINER AWARD

Wins   2nd   3rd

Aidan O'Brien IRE  4   3   2

Sir Michael Stoute  3   -   3

Lady Cecil   2   1   1

Kevin Ryan   2   -   -

Richard Hannon  1   3   2

John Gosden  1   2   3

Wesley Ward USA  1   1   -

Charlie Hills   1   1   1

Clive Cox   1   1   -

Andrew Balding  1   -   1

Nicky Henderson  1   -   1

George Baker  1   -   -

Jim Bolger IRE  1   -   -

Clive Brittain   1   -   -

Mick Channon  1   -   -

Roger Charlton   1   -   -

Paul Cole   1   -   -

Edward Lynam IRE  1   -   -

Joanna Morgan IRE 1   -   -

Jonjo O'Neill   1   -   -

Jonathan Portman  1   -   -

Olly Stevens   1   -   -

David Wachman IRE 1   -   -

Richard Fahey  -   4   -

William Haggas  -   2   2

Alain de Royer-Dupre FR -   2   -

Saeed bin Suroor  -   1   3

Roger Varian  -   1   1

Marco Botti   -   1   -

Ed Dunlop   -   1   -

James Fanshawe  -   1   -

Mike de Kock SAF  -   1   -

Willie Mullins IRE  -   1   -

Alex Pantall FR  -   1   -

David Simcock   -   1   -

Chris Wall   -   1   -

David Barron  -   -   1

Ralph Beckett  -   -   1

David Brown   -   -   1

Henry Candy  -   -   1

Peter Chapple-Hyam -   -   1

Francois Doumen FR -   -   1

Mark Johnston  -   -   1

Ismail Mohammed  -   -   1

Fawzi Nass BAH  -   -   1

Tim Pitt   -   -   1

QIPCO ROYAL ASCOT TOP JOCKEY AWARD

Wins   2nd   3rd

Johnny Murtagh  4   1   -

Joseph O'Brien  3   2   -

Ryan Moore   3   1   6

James Doyle  3   1   -

Jamie Spencer  2   -   4

Richard Hughes  1   3   3

William Buick  1   1   2

Tom Queally   1   1   2

Seamie Heffernan  1   1   -

Joel Rosario   1   1   -

Jim Crowley   1   -   1

Fran Berry   1   -   -

Neil Callan   1   -   -

Jimmy Fortune   1   -   -

Martin Harley  1   -   -

Richard Kingscote  1   -   -

Adam Kirby   1   -   -

Billy Lee   1   -   -

Wayne Lordan  1   -   -

Kevin Manning  1   -   -

Frankie Dettori  -   4   -

Paul Hanagan  -   3   1

Silvestre De Sousa  -   2   3

Tony Hamilton  -   2   -

George Baker  -   1   -

Kieren Fallon  -   1   -

Thierry Jarnet  -   1   -

Martin Lane   -   1   -

Christophe Lemaire -   1   -

James McDonald  -   1   -

Christophe Soumillon -   1   -

Andrea Atzeni  -   -   1

Mickael Barzalona  -   -   1

Thomas Brown  -   -   1

Joe Fanning   -   -   1

Cathy Gannon  -   -   1

Rab Havlin   -   -   1

Liam Jones   -   -   1

Graham Lee   -   -   1

QIPCO TITLE PROVES MURTAGH STILL TOP OF HIS GAME

                                               

Notions that Johnny Murtagh might cut back on riding commitments while grasping his new role as a trainer were consigned to the pending tray today.

Four winners this week at Royal Ascot enabled the Irishman to head a stellar cast in the race for QIPCO's Top Jockey Award. Joseph O'Brien was runner-up with three winners, the same as Ryan Moore and James Doyle, but with more placings.

Murtagh said: "It's absolutely terrific and I didn't think it would happen at the start of the week. I had a few nice rides, but not enough of them, although things fell into place.

"Getting a double on day one gave me a great start, and then to complete it today with a winner for Lady Cecil made it all very special. It's very competitive out there and the races are very fast and very true - the best horse will always win and I was on some nice horses. It's the biggest meeting of all, so to win the title is wonderful.

"As a jockey I'm as hungry as ever - I'm really enjoying it and perhaps a bit more relaxed. Maybe the horses sense that. I would never doubt myself - I know what I can do, my record is there and I never try to do anything special. It might be a big day and some people might try and do a bit more, but no, the simpler I keep it the better the results. Maybe I'm getting a bit wiser as I get older."

Asked if he would be visiting Britain less now he has a trainer's licence, Murtagh said: "I'll be travelling over when I'm needed. People may be looking from the outside thinking 'Ah, he's lost the hunger', but I haven't. I'm still Johnny Murtagh the jockey, and the training career is there when the jockey's career dries up.

"At the start of the week I had two rides the first day and one for the rest of the week and I was thinking maybe they have forgotten me, but things got going and after this week maybe they will realise I'm still as keen as ever.

"The highlight has to be Sole Power for Eddie Lynam in the Group One King's Stand Stakes, and, I don't like saying it, finishing second in the Gold Cup [on Simenon behind The Queen's Estimate] was devastating, but a great result."

O'BRIEN TAKES QIPCO LEADING TRAINER TITLE 

Aidan O'Brien took the QIPCO-sponsored Top Trainer Award at Royal Ascot 2013 by saddling four winners. He received his trophy from The Queen following the running of the Diamond Jubilee Stakes.

O'Brien's tally helped Irish stables to reap a record-equalling eight winners during the Royal Meeting, although none came on the final day.

In second place was Sir Michael Stoute, whose Newmarket yard sent out three winners, one more than Lady Cecil and Kevin Ryan.

CHIBERTA IS KING IN QUEEN ALEXANDRA

Trainer Andrew Balding was already eyeing a return trip to Royal Ascot in 2014 after 8/1 shot Chiberta King recorded a narrow head victory in the final race of this year's Royal Meeting, the Queen Alexandra Stakes.

The seven-year-old is often seen over hurdles during the National Hunt season but he landed the biggest race of his career to date despite jockey Jimmy Fortune losing his reins in the final part of the race.

Balding indicated that Chiberta King would be heading back hurdling this winter but was hopeful that he could come back here next year for another crack at this race.

"We're delighted with that and it looked like Jimmy didn't need his reins in the end!" quipped Balding.

"Jimmy is so strong in the saddle that I don't really think it would have made a difference either way. He's given him a peach of a ride and it's nice to sign off the week with a winner as it's been a tough few days.

"We might bring Chiberta King back again next year. I am so thrilled with the horse and for the owners because they are a great bunch.

"He is seven now and we bought him when he was yearling but he has been such a good servant and the lad, who looks after and rides him everyday, has done a fantastic job."

FORTUNE FAVOURED IN FINALE

Jockey Jimmy Fortune had to wait until the concluding Queen Alexandra Stakes to make the scoresheet for Royal Ascot this year when holding off Shahwardi by a head to score aboard Chiberta King.

"He's a lovely old horse. He's tough, he loves a battle, he stays well and he's very genuine. He's what you want," said Fortune. "I wasn't confident I was going to win until we got over the line because I was waiting for Frankie (Dettori on Shahwardi) to come and pounce as I knew he was aboard the class horse in the field. But luckily my fellow pulled out a bit more when Frankie got to me.

"Ironically, this horse normally makes the running but today they went off very quick and he wasn't really going early but that has probably won him the race.  It's been a long time coming but thank God we got a win."

Frankie Dettori, who finished second on the 3/1 favourite Shahwardi, commented: "He (Chiberta King) just outstayed me. I was there to win but mine was empty and the winner was just a better stayer than mine."

Reflecting on his week, Dettori added: "I have had some good rides - it is brilliant to be back at Ascot and I have had four seconds including three today."

5.35pm Queen Alexandra Stakes

£60,000 total prize fund. For 4yo+, 2m 6f. Weights: 4yo colts and geldings 9st; fillies 8st 9lb; 5yo+ horses and geldings 9st 2lb; mares 8st 11lb. Penalties: after June 18th, 2012, each Class 3 race or Class 2 race won 3lb for each Class 1 race won 5lb (handicaps excluded the purpose of penalties) (penalties cumulative and maximum penalty 10lb). Penalty value 1st £37,350.00 2nd £11,184.00 3rd £5,592.00 4th £2,796.00 5th £1,398.00 6th £702.00.

1 CHIBERTA KING (The Pink Hat Racing Partnership) Andrew Balding 7-9-02 Jimmy Fortune [16] 8/1

2. SHAHWARDI (FR) (Tony Bloom) Alain de Royer-Dupre FR 7-9-02 Frankie Dettori [5] 3/1 Fav

3. SEASIDE SIZZLER (I Heseltine) Ralph Beckett 6-9-02 Jim Crowley [18] 16/1

4. FIRST AVENUE (Laura Mongan) Laura Mongan 8-9-02 Joe Fanning [13] 40/1

5. CLOUDY SPIRIT (Norma Harris) Andrew Hollinshead 8-8-11 Jimmy Quinn [15] 40/1

6. NO HERETIC (Fitri Hay) David Simcock 5-9-02 Jamie Spencer [19] 13/2

7. SOHAR (G B Partnership) James Toller 5-8-11 Kirsty Milczarek [12]

8. CUL BAIRE (IRE) (Mrs U Manning) Jim Bolger IRE 5-9-02 Kevin Manning [14]

9. MASHAARI (IRE) (P Martin) Brian Ellison 4-9-00 Kieren Fallon [1]

10. PALAZZO BIANCO (The Palazzo Bianco Partnership) Brian Ellison 5-9-02 Dale Swift [9]

11. COURTESY CALL (IRE) (Alan Spence) Nicky Henderson 4-9-00 Neil Callan [7]

12. RIPTIDE (Middletons) Michael Scudamore 7-9-02 Paul Mulrennan [4]

13. COSIMO DE MEDICI (Bevan, Doyle & Lawrence) Hughie Morrison 6-9-02 Richard Hughes [3]

14 AMERICAN SPIN (G Collacott & R Gadd) Luke Dace 9-9-02 Pat Dobbs [10]

15. JUNIOR (Middleham Park Racing LI) David Pipe 10-9-02 Ryan Moore [17]

16. STOPPED OUT (The Well Oiled Partnership) Philip Kirby 8-9-02 Daniel Tudhope [20]

17. YAZDI (IRE) (The Neardown VI) Charlie Mann 4-9-00 Silvestre De Sousa [11]

18. MAD MOOSE (IRE) (Middleham Park Racing XXXV & Partners) N A Twiston-Davies 9-9-02 William Twiston-Davies [2]

PU OCEAN'S MINSTREL (W McLuskey) John Ryan 7-9-02 Graham Lee

19 ran Non-runner: Meganisi (Bruised foot)

Time: 4m 51.49s  Distances: hd, 1½, nk, ¾, nk, ½, sh, 8, nk, 29, 39, 2, 4, 17, 11, 2½, 87

Breeder: Watership Down Stud, Breeding: 7 b g King's Best (USA) - Glam Rock (Nashwan (USA))

Tote Win £10.60 Places £3.30, £2, £5.50 Exacta £32.30

Winning trainer:- Name:Andrew Balding Born: December 29, 1972 Based: Kingsclere Stables, Newbury, Berkshire Background: Son of former trainer Ian Balding, who retired at the end of 2002 having won the 1971 Derby with Mill Reef as well as a many other top races. Attended Radley College before obtaining a degree at the Royal Agricultural College in Cirencester, during this time he rode as an amateur and spent working holidays with trainers Nigel Twiston-Davies and Dan Hendricks in California. After leaving Cirencester, joined uncle Toby Balding's Fyfield Stables as amateur. In just over 100 rides he rode 20 winners under Rules, including The Horse and Hound Cup and The Moet and Chandon at Epsom. In 1997 joined Yorkshire based trainer Lynda Ramsden for two seasons. During this time he was closely associated with horses such as Nuclear Debate, Hawksley Hill, Bishops Court and Top Cees. The latter joined the Kingsclere team when Ramsden stopped training in 1998 and Andrew returned home assist his father. Andrew is now married to Anna Lisa who is personal assistant to Andrew's sister Clare, the BBC racing and sports presenter. Classic Successes: (1) Investec Oaks (2003 Casual Look) First Winner: Easter Ogil, Bet Direct Football Cashbacks Classified Stakes, Lingfield, January 11, 2003 Other Major Wins: Canadian International (2003 Phoenix Reach), Dante Stakes (2012 Bonfire), Darley Oettingen-Rennen (2003 Passing Glance, 2012 Highland Knight), Diomed Stakes (2004 Passing Glance, 2012 Side Glance), Dubai Sheema Classic (2005 Phoenix Reach), Hong Kong Vase (2004 Phoenix Reach), Play The King Handicap (2005 Vanderlin), Samsung St Leger Yearling Stakes (2007 Dream Eater) ladbrokes.com Stakes (2007 Buccellati), intercasino.co.uk St Simon Stakes (2008 Buccellati), betchronicle.com Ormonde Stakes (2009 Buccellati), Sovereign Stakes (2011 Side Glance, 2012 Tullius) Royal Ascot Wins (2): Wokingham Handicap (2007 Dark Missile) Queen Alexandra Stakes (2013 Chiberta King) First Goodwood winner: Phoenix Reach (July 29, 2003 - Peugeot Gordon Stakes) Total Goodwood wins: 16 (6 at July Meeting) Number of horses in training (2003-2012):114; 128; 133; 128; 120; 121; 136; 136; 147; 167 Wins in a Year (2003-2012): 54; 48; 40; 48; 39; 67; 68; 78; 70; 93 Wins in 2013: 39.

Winning jockey:-Name: Fortune, James Joseph. Date of birth: 14/6/72 Apprenticeship: With Mike O'Neill. English Classic Wins (1): Ladbrokes St Leger (2007 Lucarno) Big wins Include: Coolmore Matron Stakes (2009 Rainbow View), Darley Yorkshire Oaks (2009 Dar Re Mi), Audi Pretty Polly Stakes (2009 Dar Re Mi), Juddmonte Lockinge Stakes (2009 Virtual), Cheveley Park Stakes (2008 Serious Attitude), Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (2008 Raven's Pass), Premio Vittorio di Capua (2007 Linngari), Sussex Stakes (2006 Court Masterpiece), Meon Valley Stud Fillies' Mile (2004 Playful Act, 2005 Nannina), Shadwell Stud Middle Park Stakes (2002 Oasis Dream), Prix de la Foret (2001 Mount Abu), Racing Post Trophy (1998 Commander Collins) Royal Ascot Winners (15): Queen Mary Stakes (1999 Shining Hour), Royal Hunt Cup (2002 Norton, 2007 Royal Oath), Duke Of Edinburgh Handicap (2003 Waverley), King Edward VII Stakes (2005 Plea Bargain), Coronation Stakes (2006 Nannina), Wokingham Handicap (2006 Baltic King), Jersey Stakes (2007 Tariq), Windsor Forest Stakes (2007 Nannina), Norfolk Stakes (2007 Winker Watson), Ascot Stakes (2007 Full House), Ribblesdale Stakes (2008 Michita), Hardwicke Stakes (2009 Bronze Cannon), Tercentenary Stakes (2011 Pisco Sour), Queen Alexandra Stakes (2013 Chiberta King) Leading Rider at Royal Ascot: 2007 (5 wins) First Goodwood win: Fraam (Anne Frances Stevens Memorial Stakes, September 11, 1992) Goodwood winners:71 (20 at July Meeting) Wins (1988-2012): 8, 29, 47, 32, 26, 25, 56, 46, 83, 78, 108, 94, 91, 71, 92, 46, 72, 95, 77, 110, 87, 73, 77, 67, 66 Wins in 2013: 17.

HERBERT HAS HIGH OPINION OF DUKE OF EDINBURGH WINNER

The members of Highclere Thoroughbred Racing were visibly overjoyed after 8/1 shot Opinion landed the Duke of Edinburgh Handicap at Royal Ascot this afternoon.

The four-year-old took up the running a couple of furlongs from home and although they had to fend off the challenge of Frankie Dettori aboard the 5/1 favourite Stencive, Sir Michael Stoute's colt fought hard to register a gutsy victory.

Opinion had been the lead horse for the syndicate's Investec Derby hope Telescope earlier in the season but he had his day in the limelight here and Highclere's managing director Harry Herbert has some high hopes for his charge later in the season.

"We're thrilled to bits with that as having winners at Royal Ascot is exactly what we're about," said Herbert.

"It is so exciting to have a winner and it's the theatre of dreams. This was the last shot for us and we have had some excitements and disappointments throughout the week.

"Royal Ascot is best race meeting in the world and it is where everybody wants to win a race. When you go to the yearling sales that is where the seed germinates and every yearling we look at with John (Warren) he will say to me: 'can this win a Classic or at Royal Ascot?'

"We have been incredibly lucky at this meeting and it is wonderful to have this success."

"He was trained for this race by Sir Michael after doing the donkey work for Telescope earlier on this year.

"The Ebor (at York) is very much on the agenda now and we hope he could be good enough for the Melbourne Cup later on in the year."

Jockey Ryan Moore was recording his third victory of the Royal Meeting aboard Opinion and he declared himself 'satisfied' with his performance this week.

"The race worked out very well and we were able to get a good spot. I filled him up for a long time and he stays very well - you could see that in the last furlong.

"The ground was fast on Guineas day at Newmarket and the track runs away from you for quite a while but the stiffer track here has helped him.

"I have to be satisfied with how the meeting has gone."

HAGGAS PHILOSOPHICAL

William Haggas's runners have been knocking on the door without winning all week at Royal Ascot and Stencive continued the trend when second to Highclere Thoroughbred Racing's Opinion in the concluding Duke Of Edinburgh Handicap.

"If it hadn't been (Highclere managing director) Harry (Herbert)'s horse that won I would have been feeling differently but I'm delighted for Harry," said Haggas. "It has just been one of those weeks this year but I'm chuffed to bits with how Stencive ran. I think the draw probably didn't help him."

Godolphin's Usturia finished third and racing manager Simon Crisford commented: "He's run a lovely race and we're very happy with him but he was just beaten by two better horses."

5.00pm Duke Of Edinburgh Handicap

£75,000 total prize fund. For 3yo+ rated 0-105 , 1m 4f. Weights: highest weight not less than 9st 10lb; minimum weight 8-0. Penalties: after June 15th, a winner 4lb A winner of 2 races 7lb. Penalty value 1st £46,687.50 2nd £13,980.00 3rd £6,990.00 4th £3,495.00 5th £1,747.50 6th £877.50.

1. OPINION (IRE) (Highclere Thoroughbred Racing - Herring) Sir Michael Stoute 4-9-00 Ryan Moore [10] 8/1

2 STENCIVE (Bernard Kantor & Markus Jooste) William Haggas 4-9-03 Frankie Dettori [20] 5/1 Fav

3. USTURA (USA) (Godolphin) Saeed bin Suroor 4-8-11 Silvestre de Sousa [6] 7/1

4. CARAVAN ROLLS ON (Qatar Racing Limited) Peter Chapple-Hyam 5-9-00 Jamie Spencer [17] 11/2

5. LAHAAG (Hamdan Al Maktoum) John Gosden 4-9-05 Richard Hughes [4] 15/2

6. SIR GRAHAM WADE (IRE) (Paul Dean) Mark Johnston 4-9-10 Joe Fanning [14] 16/1

7. BLUE SURF (John Connolly & Partners) Amanda Perrett 4-9-03 Pat Dobbs [1]

8. HAMMERFEST (Qatar Racing Limited) John Hammond 6-9-05 Jim Crowley [18]

9. SILVER LIME (USA) (Khalid Abdullah) Roger Charlton 4-8-11 James Doyle [19]

10. BEAUMONT'S PARTY (IRE) (Elliott Brothers And Peacock) Brian Ellison 6-9-00 Dale Swift [15]

11. COMMUNICATOR (Lady Davis) Andrew Balding 5-9-01 Jimmy Fortune [5]

12.HIGHLAND CASTLE (J Wotherspoon & W Harrison-Allan) David Elsworth 5-8-13 Liam Keniry [3]

13. ART SCHOLAR (IRE) (Mrs J Scrivens) Mick Appleby 6-9-01 Tom Queally [7]

14. HANOVERIAN BARON (Paul Moulton) Tony Newcombe 8-8-12 Seb Sanders [16]

15. DEIA SUNRISE (IRE) (Martin Hughes & Michael Kerr-Dineen) Paul Webber 4-9-02 William Buick [21]

16. BUCKLAND (IRE) (P McNally) Hans Adielsson 5-9-04 Nicole Nordblad (5) [2]

16 ran Non-runners: Rye House (Going), Voodoo Prince (Going), The Tiger (Going)

Time: 2m 31.30s Distances: 2, 2, 1, 1¾, 1¼, nk, ¾, nk, nk, 4, 1¼, ¾, 6, ½, 1

Breeder: Ballylinch Stud Breeding: 4 b c Oasis Dream - Kiltubber (IRE) (Sadler's Wells (USA))

Tote Win £9.20 Places £2.30, £1.70, £2.20, £1.60  Exacta £50.40

Winning trainer:-Name: Stoute, Sir Michael Ronald Date of birth:22/10/45 Date of first licence: 1972 First Winner: Sandal, Newmarket, April 28, 1972, Turn Of The Lands Handicap. Previous Occupation: Served with Pat Rohan, Doug Smith and Tom Jones. Other information: Arrived in Britain from his native Barbados just before his 20th birthday and has won the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham with Kribensis in 1990. Was the only trainer to win a British Classic in five consecutive seasons. Was awarded a knighthood in 1998 for services to tourism in Barbados. Has been champion trainer on 10 occasions: 1981, 1986, 1989, 1994, 1997, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006 and 2009 British Classic Wins (15):1000 Guineas (1989 Musical Bliss, 2003 Russian Rhythm), 2000 Guineas (1985 Shadeed, 1988 Doyoun, 1997 Entrepreneur, 2000 King's Best, 2001 Golan), Investec Derby (1981 Shergar, 1986 Shahrastani, 2003 Kris Kin, 2004 North Light, 2010 Workforce), Investec Oaks (1978 Fair Salinia, 1987 Unite), Ladbrokes St Leger (2008 Conduit) Irish Classic Wins (11): Irish 1,000 Guineas (1986 Sonic Lady), Irish 2,000 Guineas (1989 Shaadi), Irish Derby (1981 Shergar, 1983 Shareef Dancer, 1986 Shahrastani), Irish Oaks (1978 Fair Salina, 1986 Colorspin, 1987 Unite, 1988 Melodist (dh), 1995 Pure Grain, 2000 Petrushka) Other Major Wins: Champion Stakes (1997 Pilsudski, 2000 Kalanisi), Cheveley Park Stakes (1980 Marwell, 1994 Gay Gallanta, 2000 Regal Rose), Coronation Cup (1992 Saddles' Hall, 1993 Opera House, 1997 Singspiel, 2000 Daliapour, 2009 Ask), Dewhurst Stakes (1986 Ajdal), Coral-Eclipse (1993 Opera House, 1994 Ezzoud, 1997 Pilsudski, 2001 Medicean, 2007 Notnowcato), Falmouth Stakes (1983 Royal Heroine, 1986 & 1987 Sonic Lady, 1998 Lovers Knot), Fillies' Mile (1985 Untold, 2003 Red Bloom), Haydock Sprint Cup (1986 Green Desert, 1987 Ajdal), Juddmonte International (1986 Shardari, 1993 & 1994 Ezzoud, 1997 Singspiel, 2006 Notnowcato), Darley July Cup (1981 Marwell, 1986 Green Desert, 1987 Ajdal), King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes (1981 Shergar, 1993 Opera House, 2002 Golan, 2009 Conduit, 2010 Harbinger), Lockinge Stakes (1986 Scottish Reel, 1990 Safawan, 1995 & 1996 Soviet Line, 2001 Medicean, 2004 Russian Rhythm, 2006 Peeress), Nassau Stakes (1977 Triple First, 1984 Optimistic Lass, 1990 Kartajana, 1994 Hawajiss, 2002 Islington, 2003 Russian Rhythm, 2004 Favourable Terms), Nunthorpe Stakes (1974 Blue Cashmere, 1987 Ajdal), Queen Elizabeth II Stakes (1985 Shadeed, 1987 Milligram, 1989 Zilzal), Racing Post Trophy (2000 Dilshaan), Sun Chariot Stakes (1977 Triple First, 1990 Kartajana, 2005 Peeress), Sussex Stakes (1986 Sonic Lady, 1989 Zilzal, 1998 Aomong Men), Yorkshire Oaks (1978 Fair Salinia, 1985 Sally Brown, 1986 Untold, 1990 Hellenic, 1995 Pure Grain, 2000 Petrushka, 2002 & 2003 Islington, 2004 Quiff), Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe (2010 Workforce) Major International Wins: Canadian International Stakes (1996 Singspiel), E P Taylor Stakes (1986 Ivor's Image), Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud (2004 Gamut, 2007 Mountain High, 2009 Spanish Moon), Prix du Moulin de Longchamp (1986 Sonic Lady), Prix de l'Opera (1983 Royal Heroine, 1985 Bella Colora, 2000 Petrushka, 2003 Zee Zee Top), Prix Royal-Oak (2007 Allegretto, 2009 Ask), Bayerisches Zuchtrennen (2000 Greek Dance, 2008 Linngari), Grosser Preis von Baden (1996 Pilsudski), Hong Kong Bowl (1994 Soviet Line), Hong Kong Vase (2000 Daliapour), Irish Champion Stakes (1994 Cezanne, 1997 Pilsudski), Pretty Polly Stakes (2008 Promising Lead), Matron Stakes (2003 Favourable Terms, 2007 Echelon), Tattersalls Gold Cup (1992 Opera House, 2007 Notnowcato), Oaks d'Italia (1986 Ivor's Image, 1988 Melodist), Japan Cup (1996 Singspiel, 1997 Pilsudski), Dubai Sheema Classic (2000 Fantastic Light), Dubai World Cup (1997 Singspiel), Breeders' Cup Filly & Mare Turf (2003 Islington), Breeders' Cup Turf (1996 Pilsudski, 2000 Kalanisi, 2008 & 2009 Conduit) Royal Ascot Wins: 68 First Royal Ascot winner: Etienne Gerard (June 15, 1977 - Jersey Stakes) Major Royal Ascot Wins: Gold Cup (1978 Shangamuzo, 2013 Estimate), Coronation Stakes (1986 Sonic Lady, 1987 Milligram, 1998 Exclusive, 2003 Russian Rhythm), St James's Palace Stakes (1989 Shaadi), Prince of Wales's Stakes (1981 Hard Fought, 1991 Stagecraft), Diamond Jubilee Stakes (1985 Dafayna), Queen Anne Stakes (2000 Kalanisi, 2001 Medicean, 2002 No Excuse Needed), Jersey Stakes (1977 Etienne Gerard, 1980 Hard Fought, 1989 Zilzal, 1997 Among Men, 2006 Jeremy),King Edward VII Stakes (1983 Shareef Dancer, 1991 Saddler's Hall, 1994 Foyer, 2002 Balakheri, 2006 Papal Bull; 2013 Hillstar), Hardwicke Stakes (1986 Dihistan, 1991 & 1992 Rock Hopper, 2006 & 2007 Maraahel, 2010 Harbinger, 2012 Sea Moon) Other details: Champion trainer in Britain 10 times (1981, 1986, 1989, 1994, 1997, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2009) Trains at Freemason Lodge, Newmarket Wins (1984-2012): 96; 120; 76; 105; 100; 116; 78; 81; 69; 64; 109; 72; 73; 84; 79; 81; 91; 75; 104; 115; 87; 95; 107; 113; 88; 99; 73; 53; 69 Wins in 2013: 37

Winning Jockey:Moore, Ryan Lee Date Of Birth: September 18, 1983 Background: Father Gary is a trainer, and brother Jamie is a successful National Hunt jockey. Ryan initially rode over jumps as well, notching his first success on Mersey Beat in an amateur riders' event at Towcester on May 15, 2000. Switching to the flat, Ryan enjoyed his first success as a professional when winning aboard Marwell's Kris for Belgian trainer E C Chopin in at Lingfield on January 16, 2002.Appointed as stable jockey to Sir Michael Stoute in December 2007. Champion Apprentice: 2003 (59 wins) Champion Jockey: 2006 (180 wins), 2008 (186 wins), 2009 (179 wins). British Classic Wins (3): Investec Oaks (2010 Snow Fairy), Investec Derby (2010 Workforce), QIPCO 1000 Guineas (2012 Homecoming Queen) Irish Classic Wins(1): Irish Oaks (2010 Snow Fairy) Group One Wins: Jumeirah Dewhurst Stakes (2009 Beethoven), King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes sponsored by Betfair (2009 Conduit), Investec Coronation Cup (2009 Ask), Juddmonte International (2006 Notnowcato), Eclipse Stakes (2007 Notnowcato), Matron Stakes (2007 Echelon), Gran Criterium (2007 Scintillo), Audi Pretty Polly Stakes (2008 Promising Lead), Breeders' Cup Turf (2008 Conduit), Audemars Piguet QE II Cup (2009 Presvis), Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud (2009 Spanish Moon), Prix Maurice de Gheest (2009 King's Apostle), Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe (2010 Workforce) Other Big Race Wins Include: Pride Stakes (2008 Crystal Capella), Princess Of Wales's Stakes (2007 Papal Bull, 2009 Doctor Fremantle, 2011 Crystal Capella), Weatherbys Insurance Lonsdale Cup (2009 Askar Tau), DFS Doncaster Cup (2009 Askar Tau), Ladbrokes.com Railway Stakes (2010 Formosina), TNT July Stakes (2010 Libranno) First Royal Ascot Win: Colony, King George V Stakes, June 2008 Royal Ascot Wins (21): King George V Handicap (2008 Colony), Queen's Vase (2008 Patkai, 2012 Estimate), Duke Of Edinburgh Handicap (2008 Sugar Ray; 2013 Opinion), Hampton Court Stakes (2009 Glass Harmonium), Wolferton Handicap (2009 Perfect Stride), Wokingham Handicap (2009 High Standing), Jersey Stakes (2010 Rainfall), Windsor Forest Stakes (2010 Strawberrydaiquiri), Hardwicke Stakes (2010 Harbinger, 2011 Await The Dawn, 2012 Sea Moon), Queen Alexandra Stakes (2010 Bergo, 2012 Simenon), Coventry Stakes (2011 Power), Chesham Stakes (2011 Maybe), Ascot Handicap (2012 Simenon), Britannia Handicap (2012 Fast Or Free), Gold Cup (2013 Estimate); King Edward VII Stakes (2013 Hillstar) First Goodwood win: Barbason (The News Amateur Riders' H'cap, June 9, 2000) Goodwood winners:95 (24 at July Meeting) Number of Wins 2000-2012: 6; 0; 39; 59; 132; 120; 182; 128; 192; 178; 138; 101; 116 Wins in 2013: 90