Five year old RUMSTAR marked a triumphant return to Newmarket with a Group 3 victory in the Hong Kong Jockey Club World Pool Palace House Stakes on 2000 Guineas Day. The Jonathan Portman-trained gelding, who previously claimed the Cornwallis Stakes over the same course and distance as a two-year-old in 2022, showed his class again by winning over five furlongs under jockey Rob Hornby.
The son of Havana Grey surged past the competition to secure a length-and-a-quarter victory over Irish contender SHE’S QUALITY, affirming his place among the top-tier sprinters this season. Trainer Portman was delighted with the result and confirmed that the connections are now eyeing a Royal Ascot run, having recently paid the entry fee.
“We’ve been really looking forward to his return. He’s looked superb all year and felt like a stronger horse coming into this race,” said Portman. “He seems heavier and more mature now. Royal Ascot is definitely on the cards next.”
The Palace House Stakes win was one of several notable performances at Newmarket’s Saturday card. In the opening race, Henry Candy’s TIGER BAY, a four-year-old filly, impressed with a strong late charge to win the Listed Oddschecker British EBF Ellen Chaloner Stakes over six furlongs. Jockey Trevor Whelan praised her improved form, while Candy hinted that she may now target seven-furlong races.
Later in the day, MORE THUNDER, trained by William Haggas, claimed the £100,000 Betfred Handicap over six furlongs. Ridden by Tom Marquand, the Night Of Thunder colt secured victory by a short head and may now be aimed at one of Royal Ascot’s competitive handicaps.
Another standout was FOX LEGACY, who gave Andrew Balding a fine debut win after transferring from Sir Michael Stoute’s yard. The King Power Racing runner won the nine-furlong Betfred Suffolk Stakes comfortably under Oisin Murphy. Balding indicated the horse may also be part of his Royal Ascot squad.
With Royal Ascot fast approaching, the standout performances at Newmarket hint at what could be a strong British challenge in sprint and handicap divisions this summer.
