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Story by Oliver Caffrey
Jockey Damien Oliver has enjoyed a fairytale end to his 35-year career in the saddle, winning his farewell race in stunning fashion.
The 51-year-old rode Munhamek to an extraordinary victory in the Damien Oliver Gold Rush at Ascot Racecourse in Perth on Saturday.
Originally from Western Australia, Oliver celebrated a famous win in front of friends and family.
It capped a perfect day for Oliver, who won the final three races he contested after earlier wins aboard Devine Belief and Magnificent Andy at Ascot.
"I couldn't think of a better way to finish it," Oliver said.
"It was death or glory at the top of the straight.
"I had a bit of confidence in this horse, he could take the gaps when they come.
"It's a great win, an unbelievable feeling. I couldn't think of a better way to finish it off."
Oliver was denied a record-equalling fourth Melbourne Cup win when he rode Alenquer in last month's famous 3200m race at Flemington.
He conceded it had been a "long farewell", but took the spotlight for the sake of promoting the sport.
"All this attention is not really my area, but I understand it," Oliver said.
"It's been overwhelming, but the crowd here at Ascot, what a wonderful reception.
"I think it's the biggest crowd I've seen here - the applause and the roar for those last three winners, I'll never forget it."
"Bloody oath we did!"
Nathan Sharpe, Legend.
It was one of the great moments. He recreated his Melbourne Cup salute to brother Jason passing the judge in the last. A treble in his last 3 rides after not saluting right through the 6-odd weeks of the carnival.
Too bad the little bugger messed up my quaddie in the second last.![]()
"The main difference between playing League and Union is that now I get my hangovers on Monday instead of Sunday - Tom David
I was on the last three races, thanks Damian, enjoy retirement![]()
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