Saxon Warrior storms to 2000 Guineas glory

The Aidan O’Brien-trained Saxon Warrior claimed victory in the Qipco 2000 Guineas at Newmarket on Saturday.

The unbeaten three-year-old won by a length and a half and a head to steer O’Brien to his ninth triumph in the colts’ showpiece and there was another reason for the trainer to celebrate – his son Donnacha was the jockey in the saddle.

Donnacha claimed his first Classic success with the win and was grateful to have been given the opportunity to ride the bay colt to glory.

He told ITV Racing: “A huge thanks to all the owners for giving me the chance to ride him and especially to dad for the faith in putting me on him in the first place.

“It’s very special. Obviously I’m winning this race and riding in big races because of the position I’m in. I’m just very grateful.”

Tip Two Win was Saxon Warrior’s closest rival as he claimed a surprise second place for trainer Roger Teal while Charlie Appleby’s Masar finished third.