23 June 2023 , 14:22
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Frankie Dettori must wish for Royal Ascot not to end as he hit another major milestone on day four of the meeting.
The superstar jockey, making his final appearance at the world famous fixture before he retires, endured a frustrating start to the week with three seconds on the first day plus a nine day riding ban which he is appealing against.
But since he opened his account in the sixth race on Wednesday his fortunes have been transformed.
On Thursday he won Royal Ascot ’s oldest race, the Gold Cup, on Courage Mon Ami and collected his winning trophy from the King.
And he opened Friday’s meeting with victory on Porta Fortuna, delivering a first Royal Ascot win for another member of the O’Brien family, Donnacha, son of Aidan and brother of Joseph.
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The victory took the Italian's total Royal Ascot score to 80 in his battle to remain the most successful active jockey at the meeting, at least by the time it ends on Saturday. Ryan Moore has 77 but both a still some way behind the legendary Lester Piggott who rode 116.
“80 wins at Royal Ascot, it’s unbelievable,” said Dettori. “I have fulfilled my dream.
“Ascot has been really special to me. I love it so much and today is incredible.I am enjoying the moment.”
O’Brien beat his father who saddled Matrika to finish second in the Group 3 prize.
“This means a lot. She is a very smart filly. The owners spotted her potential and bought into her and the plan wasa to come here so it’s great that it came off.”