The autumn sun cast a golden glow over Ascot as Trawlerman once again proved why he is the undisputed king of staying races. In a dramatic climax to the QIPCO British Champions Long Distance Cup, the seven-year-old Godolphin star edged past stablemate Sweet William to claim a commanding victory, rounding off an unbeaten domestic season that has captivated racing fans across the country.
The race unfolded at a relentless pace, with William Buick sending Trawlerman forward at the home turn. Sweet William, ever the fighter, charged in the straight, threatening to snatch the glory. Yet it was Trawlerman who held firm, crossing the line a length and a half ahead, his momentum a testament to his stamina and heart. For fans of staying races, the sight of these two seasoned campaigners duelling shoulder to shoulder was nothing short of exhilarating.
Victory in the Long Distance Cup marks a second triumph for Trawlerman in this prestigious Group 1, following his memorable defeat of Kyprios in 2023. His 2025 campaign has been impeccable: a sequence of wins in the G3 Henry II Stakes, G1 Gold Cup, and G2 Lonsdale Cup had already stamped him as Europe’s premier stayer. John Gosden reflected on the spectacle: “They are two fabulous horses… Trawlerman is a relentless galloper, and I couldn’t be more thrilled with him. Sweet William ran a blinder too — it was a great performance from both of them.”
Buick, who has ridden the horse to four QIPCO British Champions Day victories, praised Trawlerman’s character: “He wears his heart on his sleeve and is a proper horse — a joy to ride. This is championship racing at its finest.” Sweet William’s jockey, Robert Havlin, admitted defeat graciously, noting the challenge of keeping pace with his older stablemate. Meanwhile, third-placed Al Qareem, trained by Karl Burke, rounded out an impressive performance, finishing within striking distance of the leaders and earning praise as “an absolute star for the yard.”
With Trawlerman set to enjoy a well-earned break before returning for another campaign next year, his legacy as one of the greatest modern stayers seems assured. Fans will long remember the drama and majesty of this day, when endurance, strategy, and sheer courage collided in the championship spotlight.
12.55pm QIPCO British Champions Long Distance Cup (Group 1)
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Trawlerman (Godolphin) – John & Thady Gosden – William Buick – 5/6F
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Sweet William (Normandie Stud Ltd) – John & Thady Gosden – Robert Havlin – 5/2
Runners: 5
Read the full race report and analysis on RaceBuzz here.
