Macarthur lands the Ormonde Stakes

Macarthur justified favouritism at 9-4 when running out a convincing winner of the Blue Square Ormonde Stakes at Chester.

Trained by Aidan O'Brien and ridden by Johnny Murtagh, the four-year-old was settled just behind the leaders until kicking into top gear rounding the home turn.

Macarthur took over with a little over a furlong to run and lengthened takingly to inflict a four-length defeat on 22-1 chance Supersonic Dave. Carte Diamond made much of the running and stuck on well for third, while John Gosden's Raincoat had to snatch up badly when running into trouble late on.

Murtagh said: "He was much improved since the Curragh and his work has been very good.

"Aidan was very happy with him and he travelled round here on the bridle, before quickening away two furlongs out.

"I was impressed with how he quickened and he would have no problem coming back in trip.

"He has speed, will improve for the race and I think he might get quicker with racing.

"I don't think he is a stayer and don't be surprised to see him in a big Group One race over a mile and a half or a mile or a quarter."