Trawlerman made a bold statement ahead of Royal Ascot with a front-running display that sealed victory in the Group Three Star Sports Henry II Stakes at Sandown Park. The seasoned campaigner, trained by John and Thady Gosden, controlled the tempo from the outset and left no doubt about his readiness to return to the Gold Cup next month.
Piloted confidently by William Buick, the seven-year-old gelding dictated the race from the front and produced a sharp turn of foot when it mattered most. Facing only three rivals in the two-mile test, Trawlerman proved a cut above the rest as he pulled clear with authority to score by five lengths over Coltrane.
Connections were delighted with the effort, highlighting the tactical execution and rhythm found throughout the race. They noted that this prep run served its purpose perfectly, giving the experienced stayer a solid platform to build on ahead of Royal Ascot. With Kyprios now retired, the staying division sees a new dynamic emerging, and Trawlerman could very well be at its forefront. His trainer spoke fondly of the gelding’s generous nature and consistency, traits that have made him a fixture in their stable over the years.
The Brigadier Gerard Evening also featured a dramatic victory in the Listed Star Sports National Stakes, where Anthelia, an unfancied 25-1 outsider, continued her remarkable rise. Trained by Rod Millman and ridden by Lewis Edmunds, the filly displayed exceptional grit to snatch victory up the rail, preserving her unbeaten record in style.
Purchased for a modest 6,000 guineas, Anthelia has emerged as one of the season’s most exciting stories. Though small in price, she showed big-time ability as she defeated colts and previously proven winners in the five-furlong dash. Millman explained that Anthelia is still learning but continues to surprise even her own team. While a Royal Ascot run is not currently on her schedule, the team is eyeing the Listed Empress Fillies’ Stakes at Newmarket later this month as a logical next step.
Her jockey echoed the team’s confidence, remarking on her determination and strong finish despite still showing signs of greenness. It was a performance that added both excitement and value to her pedigree, solidifying her place as a filly with significant potential.
Also on the card, Wicked finally broke through to score his maiden win at the fourth attempt in the Starsports.Bet Handicap. The well-bred colt, representing Wathnan Racing and the Gosden yard, had previously shown promise when finishing runner-up at Newmarket. This time, under James Doyle, the son of Kingman surged late in a strong finish to claim the win by a length.
Doyle’s ride was measured, keeping Wicked covered up before asking for a finishing kick in the final furlong. The stiff mile at Sandown suited him perfectly, and his connections believe that a step up in distance could unlock further improvement. With a prestigious pedigree and a composed temperament, Wicked now appears poised for bigger assignments, potentially even at Royal Ascot depending on how the handicapper assesses this latest effort.
The Gosden team, who celebrated two wins on the night, were pleased with Wicked’s progression and hinted at further development to come. His calm post-race demeanor and adaptability bode well for the future.
Overall, the Sandown Park evening card delivered a compelling mix of emerging talent and established quality, setting the stage for exciting developments as Royal Ascot looms on the horizon.
