If you’re a fan of fairy-tale endings, then Damien Oliver’s last day in the saddle at Ascot, Western Australia, this past Saturday will stand among racing’s most remarkable moments.
Oliver’s triumph in the final three races of the Ascot card, following a dry spell since Melbourne Cup day, just went to show that age has not worn him, as Devine Belief, Magnificent Andy, and Munhamek secured consecutive victories.
OLLIE BOWS OUT A WINNER!
A remarkable ride sees Munhamek take out the Damien Oliver Gold Rush… INCREDIBLE!🙌🐐🏆 pic.twitter.com/EyhazINeRd
— SKY Racing (@SkyRacingAU) December 16, 2023
In the ultimate race of both the card and his career, Oliver delivered a quintessential performance that solidified his reputation as the GOAT (Greatest of All Time) in his namesake event, the $1.5 million Damien Oliver Gold Rush. Despite limited options starting from barrier 17 in a race with a perplexing pace, Oliver faced a conspicuous position third from the rear along the rail approaching the home turn. However, he weaved a memorable passage, navigating a path to clinch victory by three-quarters of a length. “It was death or glory at the top of the straight,” Oliver said.
