The Form Horse Strikes Again
This latest win marked the second major sprint success in a week for Two Tribes, whose rapid rise through the handicap ranks is now impossible to ignore. Spencer, who also saddled fourth and fifth in the race, was visibly moved by the result.
“Two Tribes is in great form, and when sprinters hit that kind of rhythm, they’re incredibly hard to stop,” he said. “These are tough races—28 runners, full throttle—so for a horse to back up within seven days like this is extraordinary. I never thought he’d win that far in a million years.”
Spencer attributed much of the success to his stable staff. “This is a team effort. A huge shout-out to everyone behind the scenes. It means the world to deliver these results for Phil [Cunningham] and his family.”
Ground, Grit, and Group Ambitions
The Ascot victory came on fast ground, while the softer surface at Goodwood introduced an additional stamina test, which Two Tribes passed with flying colours. Spencer hinted that bigger targets may now beckon, though he’s cautious given the likely handicap rating hike.
“We’ll see what the handicapper does, let the dust settle, then plan ahead. Run Boy Run and Twilight Calls might be aimed at the Ayr Gold Cup. Twilight was drawn the wrong side today and still ran a huge race—he’ll win a big one soon.”
Cunningham’s Emotional Win
For Cunningham, the Coral Stewards’ Cup evoked memories of earlier triumphs, but also offered something more enduring.
“This game’s tough. People told me after Cockney Rebel to walk away, that I’d never experience days like that again. But we kept going. This horse cost just £4,000 as a foal, and now look, two huge wins in a week. It’s emotional.”
He also praised Spencer’s management: “I thought Richard was mad entering three runners, but he’s proven it was a masterstroke. We’ve got a group of improving horses, and this is just the start.”
Egan’s Seal of Approval
Winning jockey David Egan described Two Tribes as “electric,” noting how comfortably the horse travelled into contention.
“He was taking me there, not the other way around. That’s when you know they’re flying. The International at Ascot was tough, but he’s even better today. Richard’s timing has been spot on, and this horse just thrives on racing.”
Egan also revealed that Two Tribes had been full of himself both pre-race and at Ascot. “He tried to put me on the floor under the tunnel at Ascot! Same today. When you see that energy, you know they’re well.”
Credit Where It’s Due
Other runners also gained plaudits. Strike Red’s rider Billy Garritty said, “My lad’s a model of consistency. He’s won big handicaps for several seasons now. But the winner was gone. He’s clearly very well in.”
Jakajaro’s trainer Robert Cowell added, “Jamie [Spencer] had to wait, which cost us. Another stride and we were second. He’s got one of these big ones in him, just needs that slice of luck.”
The Sprint Scene Heats Up
As the flat season continues to build, Two Tribes now looms large in the top-tier sprinting picture. Whether Spencer and Cunningham keep him in handicaps or step him into Pattern company remains to be seen. But on the evidence of his Goodwood and Ascot performances, he’s more than ready to take on the best.
For more updates on Glorious Goodwood and the rising sprint stars, stay tuned to RaceBuzz. For official race results, visit the Goodwood Racecourse website.
