Dubai: Ryan Moore showed why he is regarded as one of the strongest riders in the business when he delivered a power-packed ride aboard Estimate to win the Group 2 Doncaster Cup on Friday.
The three-time British champion ensured that Queen Elizabeth II’s horse stayed on strongly to hold-off Whiplash Willie, the mount of of David Probert and long-shot Kalann.
The winner was recording her first victory since the Gold Cup (G1) at Royal Ascot last year.
At one stage inside the final two furlongs, Estimate appeared to tire under pressure when challenged by the runner-up, but Moore’s exceptional experience saw him galvanise his mount and claim victory in the final furlong.
However, the rider told Channel 4 Racing: “She was never going to get beat today.
“She travelled sweetly. When she’s in front she just waits a bit, but when she feels them coming she battles away. I hadn’t really asked her a serious question and there was plenty in the tank.”
Winning trainer Sir Michael Stoute added: “It was great seeing her win as she ran such a blinder in the Gold Cup.
“She’s a lively filly that has a lot of energy and gets bored every now and again. She can be a little bit narky.
“Her resolution can never be questioned, but she is a character, and they [the staff] do a great job with her.
“I think we have to consider it [Melbourne Cup[, but I won’t make the final decision. I’m not paying!”
Meanwhile, the Mark Johnston-trained Muraaqaba was beaten to second place by Ed Lynam’s Agnes Stewart in the Group 2 May Hill Stakes.
