Derby glory for mighty Motivator

Motivator raised the roof at Epsom today as the 3-1 favourite powered to victory in the Vodafone Derby.

Roared on by members of the 230-strong Royal Ascot Racing Club, the Michael Bell-trained colt was given a great ride by Johnny Murtagh to take the blue riband from the running-on Walk In The Park.

Frankie Dettori was third on Dubawi.

Murtagh, who was landing his third win in the race after Sinndar (2000) and High Chaparral (2002), had the son of Montjeu in the perfect position throughout.

He was always travelling supremely well on the shoulder of long-time leader Hattan and was cantering turning for home.

Murtagh pressed the button two furlongs out and the response was instant as he soon quickened clear.

Dettori gave chase, but it was in vain as the winner streaked away to maintain his unbeaten record with a five-length success.

Walk In The Park, who ran on really well, was another three lengths away.