A Listed-race double as part of a treble on the first day of Newmarket’s Cambridgeshire meeting took John Gosden past Aidan O’Brien and into the lead in the Flat trainers’ championship standings.
Gosden has amassed unquestionably his strongest squad since he returned to Britain in 1989 from the United States, but admitted any thoughts of a first title must wait until next month’s enormously valuable British Champions Day at Ascot.
One of his winners on the Rowley Mile, Caucus, could be part of a formidable challenge from Clarehaven Stables on October 20 while Gallipot’s owner Lady Rothschild has other notable horses at Gosden’s disposal.
He usurped O’Brien after the progressive Gallipot (7-2 fav) came 2-1/4 lengths clear of Albamara for her first victory at Listed level in the Princess Royal Richard Hambro EBF Stakes.
“We’ve been top of the table before but been shuffled back to second. Stoutey (Sir Michael Stoute) came past us in the final furlong one year,” Gosden said.
“You’d better ask me about that (the title) after October 20.
“Gallipot has come right through the ranks and has improved again. She’ll make a nice Group race filly next year.”
Caucus (12-1) appeared for the first time since a weak effort in the Ascot Gold Cup when driven out to win the Listed Jockey Club Rose Bowl.
“He didn’t stay at Ascot and pulled a muscle, but he has come back really well,” Gosden said.
“He’s in the staying race on Champions Day, and we’ll take a look at that.”
Hezmah (100-30) and Paul Hanagan rounded Gosden’s afternoon off nicely with victory in a fillies handicap.
