Coltrane enjoys biggest win in Lonsdale Cup

It was a case of roles reversed in the Weatherbys Hamilton Lonsdale Cup as Coltrane got the better of Courage Mon Ami, Quickthorn and Giavellotto.

A hugely consistent stayer, Andrew Balding’s six-year-old had previously finished second and third in the Gold Cup and Goodwood Cup. But on the Knavesmire he was able to finish the races the strongest.

Speaking to ITV Racing after the race, Oisin Murphy reflected: “He’s truly a top-class stayer when we get it right, this means the world. I love this meeting and have been very lucky to ride superstars like Roaring Lion here – to win this race is a dream come true.

“I have to really applaud Andrew (Balding) and the owners because I had a quiet spell and my confidence was a little low but they continued their belief in me. It meant I could go into today’s race with an open mind.”

“I was really questioning what to do but I trusted my instincts, we had a nice start and I was able to ride him with confidence from there.”

Coltrane is now at the top of the market for the QIPCO British Champions Long Distance Cup on Champions Day; a race he finished second in last year.