O'Brien and Murtagh have been enjoying a fine run of form

Irish trainer Aidan O'Brien claimed another big race as favourite Honolulu won the Doncaster Cup at the St Leger Festival on Friday.

The 15-8 favourite, ridden by Johnny Murtagh, was a convincing winner.

The four-year-old overcame long-time leader Royal and Regal, who finished third, and proved too strong for eventual runner-up Balkan Knight.

O'Brien will bid to follow up in Saturday's St Leger, the season's final Classic, with favourite Frozen Fire.

After Honolulu's four-length triumph, a low-key Murtagh said: "He's a lovely horse and won well.

"He's been working well and Aidan has been delighted with him."

Bookmakers were impressed with the victory and cut Honolulu from 25s to 20-1 for the Melbourne Cup in November.

National Express Doncaster Cup (2m2f)
1 Honolulu (J Murtagh) 15-8 Fav
2 Balkan Knight (J Fortune) 16-1
3 Royal And Regal (N Callan) 2-1