Joseph O’Brien trained the final winner at Royal Ascot for the second year running as Uxmal captured the concluding Queen Alexandra Stakes.
A well-backed 2/1 favourite, Uxmal passed his stable-mate and last year’s winner Dawn Rising at the two-furlong marker and soon pulled clear, becoming a first success at Royal Ascot for jockey Dylan Browne McMonagle.
Run For Oscar came from the back of the field to take second, one place better than last year and a full five lengths behind the winner. Dawn Rising was just over three lengths further back in third.
Browne McMonagle said: “Uxmal was very good. We had a nice prep run the last day in Killarney. He was always going to handle the ground and the step up in trip was never going to be a worry.
“Joseph had him spot on for the day. It’s great to reward Joseph like this. I know it’s the last race and he’s been hitting the crossbar, but I would like to thank him and the owners for giving me this opportunity.
“This lad is really relaxed and, when I hit the front, I could really hear the noise. I just kept my head down and made sure we got the job done.
“I am delighted for everyone. Ashley, who rides him out every day, has done a great job with him, and I’d like to thank everyone who has helped me. To get a winner here is very special.
“This is definitely the biggest place in the world to have a winner, and I’m thrilled. It means everything – growing up as a kid, you’re looking at it and these are the places you want to ride winners. I hope this is the first of many!”
O’Brien said: “It was fantastic. Uxmal won really well and got the distance well. I’m really delighted for Maria and Electra and the Niarchos team – to have winner at Royal Ascot is very special. He got a lovely ride from Dylan. It is his first winner at Royal Ascot, so it’s very special.
“I’m very proud of the horse and he is an exciting stayer for the future. I think he is definitely a Group-class staying horse, so hopefully the best is yet to come.”