Blue Point has won the King's Stand Stakes at Royal Ascot for trainer Charlie Appleby and Godolphin at a price of 6/1.
The four-year-old pulled clear of Battaash to win the Group 1 contest a touch cosily with William Buick in the saddle. The success caps a terrific few weeks for Godolphin and Appleby following their Derby success with Masar at Epsom and the future now looks bright for Blue Point.
The betting had suggested we were in for a duel between the aforementioned Battassh and Lady Aurelia but the expected clash didn't materialise with the latter failing to fire in the defence of her crown.
Battaash was late down to the start but that didn't show in the early stages as the Charlie Hills trained speedster jumped into an early lead under Jim Crowley. That early pace though clearly took it's toll on a stiff Ascot track though and he was run down by the eventual winner inside the last furlong or two.
Mabs Cross (20/1) ran on well for 3rd in the 5f contest to claim some place money with American raider Bucchero also picking up plenty of prize money having produced a fine run for connections.
Lady Aurelia ran an ultimately disappointing race having started favourite to defend her crown at win at Royal Ascot for the third consecutive year but she was unable to land a blow before fading into 7th for Wesley Ward.
The afternoon belonged to Blue Point though as he once again proved himself to be at home at Ascot. The Shamardal colt has now won three of his four starts at the Berkshire venue and although punters didn't get to see the duel they had hoped for, they did see a stunning performance from a horse packed with talent.
King's Stand Stakes Result
1. Blue Point 6/1
2. Battaash 9/4
3. Mabs Cross 20/1
Results ➡️