Rachel Venniker got off to an ideal start for her Rest of the World team with a smooth victory aboard Holkham Bay in the Shergar Cup at Ascot.

Venniker, who rides as the stable jockey in her native South Africa for former UK champion Michael ‘Muis’ Roberts, holds the distinction of being the only professional female rider in the country.

Displaying plenty of flair, she patiently guided William Knight’s four-year-old, who went off as the well-supported 4-1 favorite.

Kylian looked strong just over a furlong out, but once Venniker asked for more, the race was sealed. She surged ahead, finishing two and three-quarter lengths clear to earn 15 points.

Kylian, ridden by Billy Loughnane, secured second place, with Dream Composer and Tadhg O’Shea finishing third for Great Britain and Ireland.

Reflecting on her win, Venniker said, “He gave it his all. Everything fell into place perfectly. The moment I asked him for an effort, he changed legs, and I knew no one would catch us.”

“I’m thrilled to have won a race here. It’s an incredible feeling. I’m over the moon to make South Africa and my boss proud.”

Trainer William Knight commented on the victory, saying, “The owner has been urging me for months to target the Portland (at Doncaster) next, and it might be a good plan. He seems to like these flat tracks and is one of those sprinters who’s improving.”

Meanwhile, Hayley Turner, a regular winner at the Shergar Cup, continued her streak in her 17th appearance with a commanding front-running ride on Ranch Hand (13-2) in the Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup Stayers. Andrew Balding’s eight-year-old held off Beamish, representing Great Britain and Ireland, to secure a victory for the Ladies team as they defended their title.