Damien Oliver capped off his illustrious career with a remarkable triple triumph, notching three wins in his final three rides at Ascot. The legendary jockey showcased his skill one last time, expertly guiding Nick Ryan's Munhamek to victory in the $1.5 million Damien Oliver Gold Rush.
Exiting the saddle with a total of 3189 victories, Oliver's career concluded in spectacular fashion. Overcoming a challenging draw of 17, Munhamek faced adversity, but Oliver strategically manoeuvred his mount back on the rail, ensuring a thrilling conclusion to his racing journey.
In the pivotal moments of the race, Ripcord and Clint Johnston-Porter seemed poised for victory, but Oliver, with his trademark precision, created openings. Munhamek responded with a powerful late surge, prompting an exuberant victory salute from the racing legend.
2023: The Damien Oliver Gold Rush Replay – Munhamek
Reflecting on the momentous win, Oliver expressed, “Dreams do come true, aye. That was unbelievable.” Acknowledging the relief and the overwhelming reception from the Ascot crowd, he described the race as “death or glory at the top of the straight.”
Ryan, Munhamek's trainer, expressed his astonishment at Oliver's performance by saying, “Mate, I'm speechless. What a ballsy ride – could you have scripted it? I don't know. They talk about racing Gods – he is a God.”
Oliver's earlier victories aboard Devine Belief and Magnificent Andy added to the day's spectacle.
In the seventh race, he delivered a flawless ride on Devine Belief, followed by a close-run triumph with Magnificent Andy. The latter, trained by longtime friend Stephen Miller, impressed with its ability to overcome a topweight of 61.5kg.
Expressing his joy for the victories, Oliver said, “Great to get a winner for SJ [Stephen Miller]. We go back a long way, he's a great fella and a great horseman, and wonderful to get a winner for him.”
Miller, emotional after the races, remarked, “One of my best days at the racetrack – words can't describe it. He's a jet. He's a jet.”