Lethal Force claims Diamond Jubilee Stakes victory

11-1 shot takes impressive victory at Royal Ascot seeing off Kieren Fallon's favourite Society Rock

Lethal Force in the home straight on his way to the Diamond Jubilee Stakes (GETTY IMAGES)

Lethal Force ran out a hugely impressive winner of the Diamond Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot for trainer Clive Cox and jockey Adam Kirby.

The four-year-old grey made just about every yard of the running and burst clear two furlongs out.

The 4-1 favourite Society Rock made up relentless ground under Kieren Fallon and at one stage looked likely to reel in the leader.

However, Kirby kept Lethal Force up to his work and the 11-1 chance crossed the line two lengths clear.

Lethal Force had been narrowly behind Society Rock last time out at York but was 5lb worse off here.

Krypton Factor (25-1) finished well for third, with Gordon Lord Byron and Sea Siren close up behind.

Cox said: "I'm thrilled for everyone. It's just amazing - this is what it's all about.

"Adam is such a brilliant rider, but it's fantastic for the whole team at home.

"When he sent him on, it was explosive."

Kirby said: "I'm really, really pleased. We've always had a lot of respect for this horse and, to be fair to him, he's always ran his race without ever winning.

"When he hit the gate he was doing it all so easy. The only man I've got to thank is Clive Cox."

Owner Alan Craddock added: "We're very fortunate. Clive Cox told us all along how good he was.

"I fancied him today but nobody in the press seemed to. We thought he might have a squeak after his run at York. I'm overcome with emotion, just so pleased.

"Fair play to Clive Cox as he's a master trainer, we bought him for just 8,000 Euros."

Cox said he will give the July Cup at Newmarket consideration for Lethal Force.

He admitted: "He's in the July Cup, but I'm not sure if Newmarket will suit him, if I'm honest - although it does look logical.

"Reckless Abandon (stablemate) is also in it as well, but we won't worry about that now."

Trainer James Fanshawe said of Society Rock: "He ran a very good race.

"There wasn't much between them at York and they seem to be the top two in the sprinting division at the moment.

"Hopefully he'll be right for Newmarket (July Cup) and then we'll take it from there."

PA