Star Australian sprinter Asfoora delivered a stunning performance to clinch victory in the King Charles III Stakes, with the King himself in attendance to witness the triumph.
Trained by Henry Dwyer, Asfoora had finished fourth in her British debut at the Temple Stakes in Haydock last month. However, she thrived on the faster ground at Royal Ascot, becoming Australia’s sixth winner of this prestigious race, winning by a length.
One for Australia! 🇦🇺 Asfoora wins the King Charles III Stakes at Royal @Ascot! pic.twitter.com/QmVXaTLF2A
— At The Races (@AtTheRaces) June 18, 2024
Big Evs, ridden by Tom Marquand, quickly took the lead in the five-furlong contest. However, Asfoora, guided by jockey Oisin Murphy, made a decisive move in the closing stages. At the furlong marker, the daughter of Australian sire Flying Artie matched strides with the early leader before accelerating to a commanding victory at 5-1 odds. Ed Bethell’s Regional, ridden by Callum Rodriguez, finished second, with the Mick Appleby-trained favorite Big Evs placing third.
Asfoora now joins an elite list of Australian winners in this race, which includes Choisir (2003), Takeover Target (2006), Miss Andretti (2007), Scenic Blast (2009), and Nature Strip (2022).
A jubilant Dwyer expressed his elation, saying, “We have so many people here, not only the owners of Asfoora but also 40 or 50 of my owners from home who would do anything to have a runner at Royal Ascot. It’s incredible. I think there will be the mother of all parties tonight!”
Dwyer explained their strategy: “We needed a lead-up run at Haydock, so she came over early. We wanted to be here before it got too cold in Australia and too warm here. We came over during a nice transitional period, and she settled in brilliantly, as shown by today’s performance.”
Reflecting on his achievement, Dwyer added, “That was my third Group One winner. To do it here, at Royal Ascot, is just amazing.”
Asfoora’s victory at Royal Ascot is a testament to her prowess and the meticulous planning of her team, marking a memorable moment in the history of Australian racing on the international stage.
