Joseph O’Brien’s Thundering On claims emphatic Oaks victory at Epsom

Joseph O’Brien’s Thundering On delivered a spectacular last-to-first surge under jockey Dylan Browne McMonagle to win the Betfred Oaks at Epsom on Friday.

The Frankel filly was sent off at 5-1 and spent the early stages of the prestigious Classic anchored at the rear of the field.

However, as challengers faded up the famous home straight, the Irish champion jockey remained entirely motionless in the saddle.

Sweeping past eventual runner-up Legacy Link at the furlong marker, the impressive three-year-old pulled clear to record a commanding three-and-three-quarter-length success.

Seagulls Eleven snatches dramatic Diomed Stakes win

Earlier on the card, Seagulls Eleven edged a thrilling finish to claim the Group Three Diomed Stakes for trainer Hugo Palmer.

Owned by a syndicate of footballers including James Milner, Danny Welbeck and Lewis Dunk, the 5-2 favourite followed up a recent victory in France.

Jockey Oisin Murphy guided the four-year-old to the front entering the straight, leading the field towards the stands rail.

Defending champion Persica launched a fierce challenge under Sean Levey, but the Palmer-trained victor rallied bravely to win by a nose on the line.

“I thought we were done, I must admit,” Palmer said.

“Luckily, he put his head down where it mattered.”

“He’s so tough, him and Oisin get on very well and he said he’s a pleasure to ride these days after all the difficulties earlier in his career.”

The winning trainer revealed that future targets for his tough competitor could include the Sussex Stakes, the Celebration Mile at Goodwood or the Summer Mile at Ascot.

Hickory Lad claims Woodcote triumph

Elsewhere at the famous Surrey venue, Phillip Makin celebrated a notable juvenile victory as Hickory Lad dominated the Woodcote Stakes.

Building on a promising debut at Thirsk, the star prospect led his rivals a merry dance to cap off a thrilling day of elite racing.