Ryan Moore, the jockey who partnered Queen Elizabeth II’s
beloved Estimate to a historic Gold Cup victory at Royal Ascot, has
been recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours.
Moore, widely regarded as one of the finest jockeys of his
generation, has been appointed a Member of the Order of the British
Empire (MBE) for services to horseracing and British sport.
The honour crowns a remarkable career that has seen Moore win
some of the world’s most prestigious races, including multiple
Classics in Britain, Ireland and France, as well as major
international victories across Europe, Australia, Asia and the
United States.
However, for many royal watchers, Moore will forever be
associated with one of the most memorable moments of Queen
Elizabeth II’s reign.
In June 2013, he guided the Queen’s homebred mare Estimate to
victory in the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot, becoming the first horse
owned by a reigning monarch to win the race in its more than
200-year history.
The triumph sparked scenes of jubilation rarely seen from the
late Queen, who watched from the Royal Box as Estimate crossed the
line ahead of Simenon.
Television cameras captured the monarch clapping with delight
before celebrating with family members and racing connections, in
what became one of the defining sporting moments of her reign.
The victory carried special significance for Queen Elizabeth II,
whose lifelong passion for horse racing was well known. Despite
decades of success as an owner and breeder, the Gold Cup had
remained elusive until Estimate’s famous victory.
Speaking afterwards, Moore described the achievement as a
privilege, while the Queen later said she had been “thrilled” by
the result.
Moore has since cemented his reputation as one of the sport’s
leading riders, winning numerous Group One races and establishing
himself as the first-choice jockey for trainer Aidan O’Brien and
the powerful Coolmore operation.
His recognition in the Birthday Honours reflects both his
exceptional achievements in the saddle and his contribution to
British racing over more than two decades at the highest level.
