The Legendary Stradivarius: A Crafty Veteran
If we were to give Stradivarius a label, it would undeniably be “crafty veteran.” This remarkable 8-year-old racehorse is on the verge of enhancing his already illustrious legacy. Known for his exceptional performances at Royal Ascot, Stradivarius, accompanied by jockey Frankie Dettori, aims to clinch victory in the Group 1 Gold Cup this Thursday. Having triumphed in this prestigious race three times already, he is now seeking to join Yeats as the only four-time Gold Cup winner.
A Seasoned Campaigner
Trainer John Gosden speaks highly of Stradivarius, stating, “He gets the job done. He’s like an old pro now – he knows what he wants to do and how he’s going to do it.” With a calm confidence, the seasoned racehorse knows exactly how to navigate the racecourse and secure victory. Gone are the days of extravagant wins by wide margins; instead, Stradivarius employs clever tactics to outwit his competitors.
A Record-Breaking Performer
Stradivarius has not only cemented his status as a champion but also set records in the process. With an astonishing 18 Group race wins, he holds the title for the most victories in Europe. His incredible achievements have rewarded him with earnings exceeding £5 million, a testament to his dedication and success on the track.
The Equine Marathoner
Stradivarius’s career has been marked by a remarkable workload. Over the course of his 33 races, he has covered more than 64 miles on the racetrack alone. Moreover, during his training in Newmarket, it is estimated that he has run over 8,000 miles. Gosden acknowledges that it is uncommon for flat racing horses to stay at a stable for such a long time. Stradivarius has become part of the fabric of his training base, and it is evident that he deserves a rewarding life beyond racing.
Gosden reflects on Stradivarius’s career, remarking, “You’d have to argue that he was probably in his prime at five, maybe six, and at eight, you have to face facts. It’s like a boxer getting back in the ring too late in their career. But he’s up for it at the moment.” The trainer acknowledges the challenges that come with age but believes that Stradivarius still possesses the determination and ability to compete at the highest level.
A Forgettable Day for Wesley Ward
While Stradivarius continues to showcase his prowess, Wesley Ward’s runners experienced a disappointing day at Royal Ascot. Love Reigns, one of Ward’s starters, led jockey Irad Ortiz Jr. to a five-day suspension for careless riding.
The incident occurred during the Group 2 Queen Mary Stakes when Ortiz failed to adequately correct Love Reigns’s drift to the left after the start. This maneuver disrupted the paths of three other horses and nearly caused a rider to be unseated. Despite initially taking the lead, Love Reigns finished fourth to Dramatised, the 5/2 favorite ridden by Danny Tudhope. Tudhope secured his third consecutive victory at this year’s Royal Ascot.
Additionally, Seismic Spirit, another runner from Wesley Ward’s stable, struggled in the Listed Windsor Castle race, finishing in 23rd place out of 24 participants. Aidan O’Brien’s Little Big Bear emerged victorious, earning O’Brien his first win of the Royal Ascot meeting after twelve attempts.
State of Rest: Reigning Supreme at Royal Ascot
Meanwhile, State of Rest demonstrated his exceptional talent by claiming the Group 1 Prince of Wales’ Stakes in a wire-to-wire victory. This Irish-bred horse, with odds of 5/1, secured a coveted “Win and You’re In” spot in the Breeders’ Cup Turf.
State of Rest has proven to be a true globetrotter, triumphing in prestigious races across multiple countries. In the Saratoga Derby Invitational, he emerged victorious in the Grade 1 race. He then embarked on a journey to Australia, where he won the Group 1 Cox Plate. Returning to Europe, State of Rest triumphed in the Group 1 Prix Ganay earlier this year.
Conclusion
Stradivarius, the crafty veteran, is poised to leave an indelible mark at this year’s Royal Ascot as he strives for a record-breaking fourth Gold Cup win. Meanwhile, Wesley Ward’s runners faced setbacks, and Aidan O’Brien celebrated his first triumph of the meeting. State of Rest solidified his position as a top-class contender across the globe. As Royal Ascot continues, racing enthusiasts eagerly anticipate further displays of skill, determination, and triumph from these remarkable equine athletes.
FAQs
1. How many times has Stradivarius won the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot?
Stradivarius has triumphed in the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot three times, and he aims to secure a record-breaking fourth victory this year.
2. What is Stradivarius’s record for most Group race wins?
With an impressive tally of 18 Group race wins, Stradivarius holds the European record for this remarkable achievement.
3. Who is Stradivarius’s jockey?
Stradivarius is often partnered with jockey Frankie Dettori, who has been instrumental in the horse’s success on the racetrack.
4. How far has Stradivarius run in his racing career?
Throughout his career, Stradivarius has covered over 64 miles on the racetrack. Additionally, during his training, he has run an estimated 8,000 miles in Newmarket.
5. What is the significance of a “Win and You’re In” spot in the Breeders’ Cup Turf?
A “Win and You’re In” spot in the Breeders’ Cup Turf guarantees the winning horse a place in the prestigious Breeders’ Cup Turf race, bypassing the need to qualify through other means. It adds prestige and provides a direct opportunity to compete on the international stage.
