Scandinavia delivers O’Brien’s century at Royal Ascot
Scandinavia chased down defending champion Trawlerman to win the Gold Cup and secure trainer Aidan O’Brien his 100th victory at the Royal Ascot festival. The 11/8 favourite locked horns with last year’s winner in a neck-and-neck battle before finding the decisive gear late on, with Sweet William finishing third. O’Brien, who recorded his first Ascot winner in 1997, described the performance as relentless and praised the horse’s consistent bravery across every race.
Jockey Ryan Moore admitted he was made to work harder than expected after being jostled by Caballo De Mar, who finished last. Moore said he thought he had Trawlerman covered but had to go again as the defending champion kept coming, adding that Scandinavia should have won more comfortably. Trawlerman had worn ski goggles before the race to manage an eye condition that makes him sensitive to sunlight.
O’Brien called it an honour and privilege to be part of the team, emphasising that even during a landmark week the focus remains on one race at a time given the fierce competition at the meeting. The trainer highlighted Scandinavia’s relentless nature and the collective effort behind the milestone achievement.
Earlier successes complete strong opening day
Nola Soul claimed the Chesham Stakes earlier on the card while Enceladus took the King George V Stakes, giving the stable additional reasons to celebrate on a productive afternoon at the Berkshire venue.