Scottish Grand National winning rider PJ McDonald sprang a huge surprise when partnering 18-1 shot Pyledriver to victory in the King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Qipco Stakes at Ascot.
Pyledriver proved too strong for German raider Torquator Tasso, the winner of last year’s Arc, with Mishriff taking third place.
McDonald, successful on Hot Weld in the 2007 Scottish National, switched codes the following season and now has toasted victory in Britain’s third richest Flat race.
Well-versed with knocks in the game, McDonald received the call up as regular rider Martin Dwyer is sidelined with torn knee ligaments.
“I feel so sorry for Martin," said McDonald. “These horses are so hard to come by and I know what he'll be going through right now."
Victory was not unexpected for winning trainer William Muir, who shares the licence with Chris Grassick at his Lambourn stables.
“I honestly believed I’d win two weeks ago,” he said.
“I’d seen him do a piece of work – like last year.
“Everyone will say ‘what a great training performance from Willie Muir and Chris Grassick,’ but let’s not take too much away – Jeta (Ram, work rider) does most of it as he rides every single day.
“I’ve said I never wanted to cry, but I want to cry today.”
Much has been said in recent weeks as to who would be in Westover’s saddle after Rob Hornby lost the mount to Colin Keane when successful in the Irish Derby.
Yesterday, connections would have been better advised by keeping Hornby on 13-8 favourite as Keane struggled with the brakes when vying with Broome for the lead, eventually finishing fifth.
The recent scenario of musical saddles also backfired for Frankie Dettori when he finished last of the six runners on Emily Upjohn.
Had John Gosden, the filly’s trainer, not invited Dettori back into the fold after effectively sacking him, the Italian would have been on Pyledriver’s back.
In a game where loyalty is considered a rude word, Muir is clearly the exception.
“If Martin (Muir’s son-law) comes back he will ride him in the Arc,” said Muir. “PJ knows that.”
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