Equine superstar Frankel made it 10 wins from 10 starts in the Group One Lockinge Stakes at Newbury in England on Saturday in front of a crowd of 15,000.
The four-year-old Sir Henry Cecil-trained colt, the 2/7 favourite, came home five lengths clear of Excelebration – finishing second to him for the third time – with Dubawi Gold in third, for his sixth Group One win.
Frankel’s performance under Tom Queally was all the more impressive as he had missed 10 days on the gallops with a minor injury.
However, the result of the race was never in doubt once Queally eased his star upsides half-brother and pacemaker Bullet Train and his superlative acceleration saw him dim any hopes Joseph O’Brien had on Excelebration of pegging him back.
Cecil, who has derived great pleasure late in his career and after battling cancer with this champion, paid tribute to the stable staff for bringing him back to full health.
“Very nice wasn’t it,” smiled the 69-year-old Cecil.
“I’ve got to thank his work rider and all those involved as it hasn’t been straightforward. 10 days off is not easy for a horse when you are preparing him for such a challenge.
“We always take a little bit of a hold with him first up. His first race is never his best but he’s done everything right. I’m delighted not just for myself but for the whole team including Prince Abdullah (the owner).
“As for his next race well he’s entered in two at Royal Ascot (next month) but we’ll see.”
Queally, who has despite some criticism from outside the stable retained the ride, was ecstatic at the performance.
“He is amazing and it is a great relief that he’s come back,” said the 28-year-old Irishman.
AFP gjw
