Horse racing - Shock 50-1 winner takes opening race at Royal Ascot
Ten Bob Tony stuns punters with historic victory
By Virginia Furness
Race Overview
ASCOT, England, June 16 (Reuters) - Ten Bob Tony was shock 50-1 winner in the opening race at England's Royal Ascot with punters roaring approval as the result was called in the glorious Berkshire sunshine.
How the Race Unfolded
Held up at the back of the field in the early stages of the race, the white face of Ten Bob Tony under jockey Kieran Shoemark tore through the field to beat More Thunder under Tom Marquand into second place.
Historic Achievement
Ten Bob Tony is the longest-priced horse to win the Queen Anne since Garrick at 50/1 in 1950. The win marks a sixth winner for trainer Ed Walker at the world's most prestigious flat racing festival.
Jockey and Trainer Reactions
“He just travelled superbly,” said Shoemark.
“I didn’t think we were going overly quick and we wanted to ride him to run well today and he is clearly in great form. He comes here after victory at Epsom two weeks ago. I’m somewhat surprised but delighted.”
Shoemark, who has now chalked up four wins at Royal Ascot, was as surprised as the punters by Ten Bob Tony's ability to win on good to firm. "We thought he won in easy ground," he said.
Other Notable Results
Favourite Notable Speech could finish only sixth.
Ownership and Background
Ten Bob Tony is owned by Simon Sadler who also owns Blackpool Football Club.
(Reporting by Virginia Furness; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne)
