Amiloc extended his flawless streak to five wins from as many starts with a commanding display in the Group 2 King Edward VII Stakes at Royal Ascot. Under the guidance of jockey Rossa Ryan, the talented gelding showcased determination and class to hold off strong opposition and maintain his unbeaten record for trainer Ralph Beckett and owner Vimy Aykroyd.
Having already made a striking impression at Goodwood in the Listed Cocked Hat Stakes, Amiloc stepped up in grade with confidence. Despite being ineligible for the Derby due to his gelded status, the three-year-old son of Postponed proved he belonged on the big stage. Tracking the early pace closely, he struck the front entering the final two furlongs and dug deep to fend off a spirited late challenge from Zahrann, eventually scoring by three-quarters of a length. Galveston, who had cut out the running, stayed on gamely to claim third.
While the ground conditions at Ascot posed a challenge, particularly in the closing stages, Amiloc’s toughness and racing instinct carried him through. Trainer Ralph Beckett acknowledged the firmness of the surface, noting that the horse’s stride seemed to shorten late on as he began to feel the effects. Despite those concerns, the connections felt confident enough to run, and their decision was vindicated in fine style.
Beckett, now celebrating his seventh Royal Ascot success, was quick to credit both the ride and the team behind the scenes. He hinted that future targets would largely depend on ground conditions, but didn’t rule out testing the gelding against the best again—especially if the going turns softer, which may play more to Amiloc’s strengths.
Jockey Rossa Ryan echoed similar sentiments, praising Amiloc’s grit and determination. He admitted to being slightly concerned as they turned for home, with the quick ground beginning to show its toll. Yet once asked for a final effort, the colt responded bravely, displaying both heart and ability. Ryan expressed enthusiasm about the horse’s future, particularly on more forgiving ground.
Johnny Murtagh, who trains runner-up Zahrann, took the defeat in stride. He believed the Irish colt ran with great credit and might have benefited from a bit more give in the ground. Although disappointed not to have clinched the win, Murtagh remains optimistic about Zahrann’s long-term potential, even suggesting that an ambitious target like the Arc could be within reach in the right circumstances.
As the curtain fell on the King Edward VII Stakes, Amiloc emerged not just as a winner but as a horse with real substance. While the gelding status might limit his eligibility in some marquee races, it certainly doesn’t diminish his growing reputation as one of the most consistent and exciting middle-distance performers of his generation.
