Joshua Tree showed a devastating turn of foot to claim an impressive victory in the Juddmonte Royal Lodge Stakes at Ascot on Saturday.
O'Brien second string blasts Group Two rivals
Joshua Tree showed a devastating turn of foot to claim an impressive victory in the Juddmonte Royal Lodge Stakes at Ascot on Saturday.
The Aidan O'Brien trained colt, partnered by Colm O'Donoghue, appeared to be the less fancied of the Ballydoyle pair in the Group Two renewal.
But stablemate Mikhail Ginka could manage only sixth place under Johnny Murtagh as the second string powered home to win by a length and a quarter from Waseet, with Vale Of York a head away third.
Connections had to delay their celebrations however, after the winner's drift across towards the far rail inside the final furlong appeared to hamper his rivals.
"Colm gave him a lovely ride," said O'Brien after the inevitable stewards' enquiry allowed him to keep the race.
"There was plenty of pace on and we haven't had this kind of ground in Ireland.
"He's a very nice horse and we won't be in any hurry with him. He's had his three runs and we'll see how he comes out of this.
Strong pace
"When there's loads of speed on the horses up there drop back. Johnny (Murtagh on Mikhail Glinka) got caught up.
"When Colm's horse went to the front he went to the right, I think Colm had the whip in his right (correct) hand. With a green two-year-old anything can happen off a strong pace."
Angus Gold, representing Waseet owner Sheikh Hamdan Al Maktoum, said: "It was a very pleasing run.
"Richard (Hills) said that when he wanted to go for a run he was held in by the winner, he didn't think it made any difference to the overall result but thought we could have finished a bit closer.
"It was a very good run from a nice horse. He will stay further next year.
"I've not spoken to Sheikh Hamdan, but it is highly unlikely he will run again this year as he is a horse we don't want to abuse."
Godolphin racing manager Simon Crisford said: "Vale Of York has run really well, he stays nicely and will be an interesting horse next year.
"Frankie (Dettori) felt Frozen Power just wasn't good enough, he had every chance and we will have to lower his sights now."
