Earth Shot produced a memorable performance at Royal Ascot as the four-year-old filly stormed through in the closing strides to land the Group 2 Ribblesdale Stakes, giving new connections an immediate reward after her recent transfer. The William Haggas-trained runner showed determination and class in a dramatic contest that was shaped by an eventful start and a disrupted finish.
Ribblesdale Stakes Result
Earth Shot was a standout winner in the Ribblesdale Stakes at Royal Ascot, delivering a powerful late surge to secure the prestigious prize.
The race changed complexion shortly after the stalls opened when Lady Roisia unshipped Hector Crouch, leaving the field to continue with a loose horse creating uncertainty through the contest. Lady Roisia then moved into the lead but wandered under pressure at the top of the straight, forcing Earth Shot to make her challenge from the widest position.
Johanna Walsh appeared to have the race under control after making her move around the final turn. However, Earth Shot, guided by James Doyle, gradually found her rhythm and began closing the gap inside the final furlong before producing a strong finish to get up on the line.
The winning margin was a head, with Johanna Walsh holding second place and French challenger Gilded Prize finishing a length behind in third. The result highlighted the quality and resilience of a filly who had already shown promise earlier in the season.
Trained by William Haggas, Earth Shot had joined her new ownership group after finishing narrowly second in the Listed Height Of Fashion Stakes at Goodwood. Her trainer had always held the filly in high regard and believed she had the ability to compete at the highest level.
Haggas reflected on the significance of the victory, describing the Ribblesdale as one of the most valuable prizes for a middle-distance filly. He praised Earth Shot’s development and noted that her previous performances suggested a major win was within reach.
The trainer also paid tribute to James Doyle, highlighting the long-standing relationship between the pair and Doyle’s ability to deliver in important races.
Doyle explained that Earth Shot’s relaxed nature helped her handle the unusual circumstances of the race. The jockey said the loose horse created complications during the final stages, forcing him to adjust his position and rebuild momentum more than once.
Once balanced again, Earth Shot responded strongly, stretching out in the final moments and showing the fighting attitude required to succeed on one of racing’s biggest stages.
Royal Ascot remains one of the most demanding meetings of the season, and Doyle admitted that success there is never guaranteed. He said winners at the fixture must be valued because even strong contenders can fall short.
Johanna Walsh’s trainer Joseph O’Brien was pleased with the runner-up effort despite the difficult circumstances. He said the loose horse affected several runners during the race but praised his filly’s performance and future potential.
O’Brien added that the week had demonstrated the strength of his team, with his horses performing well throughout the meeting. He described competing at Royal Ascot as a privilege and winning there as a moment to appreciate.
Gilded Prize also received praise after finishing third. Jockey Oisin Murphy said the French challenger enjoyed a favourable run and had every opportunity, although the late stages became complicated due to the loose horse and shifting positions.
The Ribblesdale Stakes result confirmed Earth Shot’s rise as one of the notable middle-distance fillies of the season. Her combination of patience, stamina and late acceleration could make her a major contender in future engagements.H
For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to racebuzz