Scandinavia, ridden by Ryan Moore, narrowly defeated Trawlerman to win the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot, marking a historic milestone for trainer Aidan O'Brien. The victory was O'Brien's 100th winner at the prestigious meeting, making him the first trainer to achieve this feat.
A Century of Success
O'Brien's first Royal Ascot winner came in 1997 with Harbour Master at 16-1. Nearly three decades later, he has reached a century of winners, with Scandinavia's triumph in the Gold Cup being the tenth time he has won the showpiece event of the week. The race saw a generational shift as the eight-year-old defending champion Trawlerman yielded to the four-year-old Scandinavia in the closing stages.
A Thrilling Finish
Trawlerman appeared to have the measure of Scandinavia just seconds before the line, but the lack of a prep run may have told in the final strides. Ryan Moore's mount ground down his rival to win by a head. John Gosden, Trawlerman's trainer, has 72 Royal Ascot winners, while Sir Michael Stoute, the previous record holder, trained 82. O'Brien has also won the trainers' title 13 times, with his main rival for a 14th title being his oldest son, Joseph.
O'Brien's Tribute
O'Brien praised his team and jockey Ryan Moore, saying, "There are so many people involved to help a horse get this far. Ryan was incredible on Scandinavia, he nursed him and nursed him." He added, "It's a very special day for myself and everybody in Ballydoyle. It's just incredible really."
Scandinavia's Future
Scandinavia, a son of US Triple Crown winner Justify, is now the new master of the staying division and could dominate the Gold Cup for the next few seasons. He was the 11-8 favorite after being backed relentlessly, with the biggest reported bet being £120,000 at 5-2.
Moore's Praise
Ryan Moore, who rode his 96th winner at Royal Ascot, paid tribute to O'Brien, saying, "Aidan identifies these horses and brings them here absolutely jumping out of their skins. The answer with Aidan is he won't care about the 100 winners. He will probably be thinking about the next 100. That is what separates him."
Other Highlights
Tony Bloom's filly Venetian Sun is expected to shine in the Commonwealth Cup on Friday, having already won £438,000. Aidan O'Brien's juvenile Sun Goddess is the pick in the 2.30 race, while Mondo Man, Precise, and Quiet Mutiny are other notable entries. Tips for the day include Sun Goddess, Venetian Sun, Mondo Man, Precise, and Quiet Mutiny.
