Irish Trainer Adrian Murray saw Valiant Force race to victory in a shock start to Day Three at Royal Ascot with the racehorse priced at a remarkable 150/1 in the Norfolk Stakes.
Owned by Kia Joorabchian’s Amo Racing, Valiant Force was always up with the pace in the centre of the track under Rossa Ryan and while he had previous experience with two runs, he was unconsidered by punters.
Bookmakers were in clover as 66-1 chance Malc finished a length-and-a-quarter second, with well-supported Elite Status, sent off the market leader at 7-4, only third.
Wesley Ward had left no one in any doubt that American Rascal was the star of the show from his American raiding party, yet while briefly threatening, he faded tamely in the final furlong.
Not one of the more well-known trainers in Ireland, Murray was walking on air afterwards.
“It’s brilliant, I just cannot believe it. I fell into racing by accident, I’m just speechless,” he said.
“We knew he was a nice horse and we couldn’t believe the price. He was only beaten half a length by His Majesty first time out and he was 150-1 today, it just didn’t make sense! I knew he was much better than that. It’s the stuff of dreams. It’s great for the small man.
“I’ve had some nice jumpers and I love it, I just love racing. ”
Royal Ascot kicked off for a third day on Thursday with the first race taking place at 2.30 pm.
