Mostahdaf’s Victorious Run at Royal Ascot’s Prince of Wales’s Stakes
Ascot Racecourse Witnesses Mostahdaf’s Remarkable Victory at Royal Ascot
Royal Ascot, Wednesday, June 21, 2023: In a thrilling renewal of the Prince of Wales’s Stakes, Mostahdaf delivered a career-best performance to clinch the prestigious title. The John and Thady Gosden-trained charge, owned by Shadwell, emerged victorious in impressive fashion, striking for the first time at the highest level.
Mostahdaf, a five-year-old, had previously tasted success in Saudi Arabia during the winter and put in a creditable display behind the Japanese superstar Equinox in the Dubai Sheema Classic. However, he was somewhat overshadowed in the build-up to the Prince of Wales’s Stakes, with the race billed as a showdown between former Derby hero Adayar, Sir Michael Stoute’s Champion Stakes winner Bay Bridge, and his Curragh conqueror, Luxembourg.
Jockey Jim Crowley patiently bided his time as Luxembourg and American raider Classic Causeway engaged in a duel up front. As the field entered the home straight, Crowley found himself in the perfect position to strike. When the moment came, Mostahdaf cruised to the lead and extended his advantage, crossing the finish line with a deeply impressive four-length victory.
“I was expecting him to pick up well in the straight, but not to make them look like they were standing still.”
- John Gosden
The triumph marked John Gosden’s third victory in the past 10 years in the 10-furlong contest and his fifth overall, though the first in conjunction with his son, Thady. Gosden expressed his surprise at the manner of Mostahdaf’s acceleration, stating, “I was expecting him to pick up well in the straight, but not to make them look like they were standing still.”
Gosden also paid tribute to Sheikha Hissa, who has taken over the Shadwell operation following the passing of her father, Sheikh Hamdan. The trainer highlighted Sheikha Hissa’s efforts in rationalizing the program and the potential for Mostahdaf to become a worthy stallion prospect.
With this career-best performance, Mostahdaf has firmly established himself as a top-class performer, and his connections will now set their sights on the prestigious Juddmonte International as the next target for the talented five-year-old.
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