Flemington-based Star Witness has run second in the King’s Stand at Royal Ascot, dashing hopes of an Australian win on day one of the prestigious British event.
The Danny O’Brien-trained four year old had been favourite for the 1,000 metre sprint at 6/1 but failed to beat in-form British offering, six-year-old Prohibit.
O’Brien had hoped pre-race for a strong finish from Star Witness in the 19-strong field and the sprinter didn’t disappoint but still missed the grand prize by about half a length.
It was a strong ride from Steve Arnold, to whom the track and distance is familiar, having won the King’s Stand a couple of years ago on Scenic Blast.
Australian sprinters have won the King’s Stand four times in the past nine years.
The unlikely South African-trained Sweet Sanette came in third on Tuesday, with fourth place going to Irish horse, Overdose.
Star Witness may back-up for Saturday’s Golden Jubilee at Ascot.
AAP
