Ascot Bows to Gold: Field Of Gold Reigns Supreme in St. James's Palace

(Photo: Arab News)

Royal Ascot, a stage for equine majesty, witnessed a performance today that transcended mere victory, heralding the arrival of a true superstar. Field Of Gold, under the masterful guidance of Colin Keane, didn't just win the Group 1 St. James's Palace Stakes; he dominated it, turning what promised to be a titanic clash into a stunning coronation. This wasn't just a reversal of his 2000 Guineas form; it was an emphatic statement of intent, a declaration that he is, unequivocally, the sport's new king of the mile.

The "clash of the Guineas champions"—featuring British hero Ruling Court and French victor Henri Matisse—was billed as the highlight of opening day. And while the pace was honest, the competitive tension dissolved the moment Field Of Gold unleashed his devastating turn of foot. Settled towards the rear by Keane, a jockey seemingly born for the Ascot spotlight, Field Of Gold conserved his energy as the early fractions burned.

But then, as the iconic Royal Ascot straight began its relentless climb, the son of Kingman found an extra gear that no other horse in the field possessed. With two furlongs remaining, he wasn't just making ground; he was devouring it. The acceleration was breathtaking, a blur of golden silk and effortless power as he swept to the front. From that point, the race became a procession, a private exhibition of speed and stamina. He galloped away from his esteemed rivals, crossing the line a magnificent three and a half lengths clear of Henri Matisse, with a thoroughly outclassed Ruling Court trailing by nearly seven lengths. This wasn't just a win; it was a demolition, a performance etched in the memory as one of Royal Ascot's truly great moments.

A visibly proud, yet characteristically composed, John Gosden reflected on the triumph: "It was a superb performance. Oisin (Murphy) set a lovely, even gallop, and Colin had so much horse underneath him. For a fleeting second, as he hit the front, I thought, 'Hang on, this is Ascot, it keeps climbing to the finish, have we gone too soon?' But then I looked back, as you always do for the dangers, and there were none. Fortunately, the nerves stayed with the trainer and didn't transmit to the horse or the jockey." His final comment, "Like father, like son," served as a poignant nod to Field Of Gold's legendary sire, Kingman, who also graced this very track with similar brilliance.

St. James Palace Stakes Race Replay (Video: At The Races)

For Ruling Court, the dream of a dominant three-year-old season encountered a harsh reality check. Jockey William Buick's post-race assessment was telling: "He never truly felt comfortable at this level today." It seems Ascot's demanding mile, coupled with the relentless pace, exposed a chink in his armor, hinting that his future lies beyond this testing distance.

Trainer Charlie Appleby was quick to outline a new trajectory for Ruling Court, confirming that stepping up in trip is now the logical next move. While an immediate tilt at the Eclipse Stakes appears unlikely given today's effort, a strategic campaign aiming towards the Juddmonte International is very much on the cards. Today's defeat, while disappointing, may ultimately prove to be a crucial lesson, guiding him towards races where his stamina can truly shine.

As for Field Of Gold, the world is now his golden oyster. Gosden, ever the pragmatist, suggested the Eclipse Stakes might come too soon, allowing his star to recover from today's Herculean effort. Instead, all roads now likely lead to the Sussex Stakes at Goodwood, a race Kingman also famously conquered. After a performance of such breathtaking power and undeniable authority, Field Of Gold has not just won a Group 1; he has announced himself as the undisputed monarch of the mile, a true golden talent in an age of champions.

(17/6/2025)