Mount Atlas strikes for Balding in Long Distance Cup
By Racing TV
Last Updated: Sat 17 Oct 2026
Mount Atlas flew home late to thwart Queenstown with a shock success in the Qatar Racing British Champions Long Distance Cup at Ascot that boosted Andrew Balding’s title challenge.
Although Aidan O’Brien and the Kingsclere handler headed into a pivotal weekend locked in battle for top spot in the trainers’ standings, it was hard to envisage this race proving pivotal with Queenstown sent off at 14-1 and the winner a 33-1 outsider.
It for one second appeared Ryan Moore had produced yet another Ascot masterclass aboard the Prix du Cadran third, but staying on resolutely was Mount Atlas whose winning run reached its summit under PJ McDonald just in time to spring a three-quarters of a length victory over his Ballydoyle rival.
St Leger winner Highwayman filled the final position on the podium, with Gregory in fourth.
More to follow...
Related posts
Five horses to follow on Champions Day at Ascot
Ryan Moore column: views on my Champions Day rides at Ascot
Dave Nevison's Champions Day tips: 11-1 Ascot nap plus other bets
Oisin Murphy: Hopes high for my two key Champions Day rides
Martin Dixon's Inside Angle: 33-1 Ascot tip and more
Featured offers
Bet £10 get £40 in free bets with Kwiff
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
New UK customers. Place a £10 real money bet at min. 2.0 odds within 5 days of deposit. Get 4 x £10 Free Bets: 1 Single, 2 Accas & 1 Bet Builder (min. 3 selections each). Excludes cashout, E/W, Multis, Ineligible Markets & Odds Boosts. Credited after bet settlement. 7-day expiry. T&Cs apply. 18+ GambleAware
Get 50% back up to £50 with QuinnBet
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
New UK Customers Only. Bet £10+ on any sportsbook markets at odds of evens (2.00) or greater. Get 50% back of your first day’s losses as a Free Bet up to £50, valid for 7 days. 18+ GambleAware.
Bet £20 and Get £40 in Free Bets with Unibet
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
18+. GambleAware.org. New GB customers only. Min £20 debit card or instant banking transfer deposit. Place a £20+ bet on Horse Racing at min odds 2/5 (1.4) each leg for 4x £10 Free Bets (can be used on Racing Bet Builder). Claim within 30 days. Valid for Horse Racing only. Geographical restrictions and Further T&C’s apply
Bet £10 get £30 in Free Bets with talkSPORT BET
T&Cs Apply
Claim Now
New Customers. Opt in, deposit and bet £10+ on any horse racing markets within 7 days of sign up. Get 3 x £10 Free Bets for set horse racing markets. Bonuses expire in 7 days. T&Cs apply. Please gamble responsibly. 18+ GambleAware
Copyright 2026 Racing TV - All Rights Reserved.
Please bet responsibly
Copyright 2026. All rights reserved