Murtagh top rider at Royal Ascot Johnny Murtagh was crowned the leading jockey at Royal Ascot for the second year in succession after ending the meeting with four wins under his belt. Murtagh claimed the London Clubs International Charity Trophy in 2008 after partnering six winners, while he was also finished the week on top in 2002 and 2001. However, this year's championship went right down to the wire with Murtagh only beating Richard Hughes due to a solitary second place. Both Murtagh - who missed the final two days through suspension - and Hughes ended the meeting with four victories, but Murtagh's second-place finish aboard Cesare in Tuesday's Queen Anne Stakes clinched him the title. Murtagh, whose highlight came aboard Yeats as the veteran claimed a record-breaking fourth Gold Cup, was represented by owner Derrick Smith's son, Paul, on the winner's podium as the Ballydoyle rider was awarded his prize. Barry Hills ended the meeting as leading trainer for the first time in his 40-year career thanks to three glorious triumphs. Hills has endured a tough couple of years battling illness, and missed this year's meeting after being hospitalised due to a life-threatening blood disorder. Success courtesy of Ouqba in the Jersey Stakes, Ghanaati in the Coronation Stakes and Giganticus in the Buckingham Palace sealed Hills his maiden championship. His son and assistant Charlie said: "This week has shown us what a great team we have at home. "They have kept the horses bang on for the week while dad hasn't been well, and he has never won the title before. Ghanaati was an undoubted highlight and she is a very special filly."
