Doncaster Cup: Times Up wins for trainer John Dunlop

Trainer John Dunlop celebrated his final appearance at Doncaster as Times Up won the Doncaster Cup.

The 73-year-old announced on Thursday that he will retire at the end of the Flat season in November.

Ridden by Eddie Ahern, Times Up came from behind with a furlong remaining to beat High Jinx by a neck, Hurricane Higgins finishing third.

Analysis

Image of Cornelius Lysaght Cornelius Lysaght BBC horse racing correspondent

"What a sensational result. John Dunlop has been dripping in horse racing all his life. He has trained trained 3,000-plus winners and is one of the real gents of British Flat racing."

"He's at the top of his form and he's got a very appropriate name too. Mind, it's not the end yet," said Dunlop.

"I'm thrilled. Doncaster has been very lucky for me and I've enjoyed the day immensely."

A slow pace allowed Ahern to lead six-year-old Times Up steadily through the Group Two field, past favourite Saddler's Rock and Gold Cup winner Colour Vision before seeing off the challenge of Hurricane Higgins, ridden by Neil Callan.

"[It was] absolutely perfect - everything went to plan," said Ahern. "In the last three furlongs everything was under control.

"He was giving me a really good feel and was filling me with confidence.

"It was just a matter of waiting for the furlong pole to really let him go and see what was there. He's galloped to the line."