‘every winner is big, but this is surreal’

This year’s Royal Ascot delivered on every level with extraordinary equines, blazing sunshine and buoyant crowds. This is what the sport is all about

A long-striding gelding nets a first grand prix win and a rider stages a winning comeback

One of the week’s big winners reaps an extra-special reward, another’s faith in their mount pays dividends, and a family’s breeding programme comes to the fore

Carl Hester and Fame raise the bar, while para contenders battle for Europeans spots and young stars shine across the levels

Four of the greatest riders of all time pinpoint the one horse that changed their lives – and the course of sporting history – forever, writes Kate Johnson

A Fell remains on form to land a cash prize, a lead-rein competitor lands a pleasant surprise for her anxious parents and a young rider reaps reward for dedication