Royal Ascot Day One: Rosallion Avenges 2000 Guineas Defeat in St James’s Palace Stakes
In a thrilling display of horsepower, Rosallion secured his revenge on Notable Speech in the Group 1 St James’s Palace Stakes on the opening day of the prestigious Royal Ascot meeting. Our racing correspondent, David Ord, was on hand to witness the turning of the tables in this captivating clash of the classic generation.
Rosallion, trained by Richard Hannon, stormed to victory under the masterful ride of jockey Sean Levey, cutting down the leader Unquestionable in the closing stages to prevail by a neck. This triumph marked the colt’s second consecutive Group 1 success, following his impressive win in the Irish 2,000 Guineas last month.
“I couldn’t be happier,” beamed a delighted Hannon. “It was a deep field, with three Guineas winners, and I’m so proud of him and the team at home. It means a lot to all of us.”
Hannon had been left to “grin and bear it” after Rosallion’s defeat in the QIPCO 2,000 Guineas, where he finished runner-up to Notable Speech. But on this occasion, the tables were turned, and the trainer was all smiles as he savored the sweet taste of revenge.
Jockey Sean Levey, who has forged a reputation as a big-race rider, was elated with the performance. “As soon as I got him out, there was always going to be plenty in the tank,” he said. “It means the world to me, and everyone at home, there is a lot of work that goes into this horse.”
With this victory, Rosallion has now firmly established himself as a leading contender for the prestigious Sussex Stakes at Goodwood, where he could face the talented Charyn, fresh off his Queen Anne Stakes triumph.
The spring champion has been dethroned, and in the warm Berkshire sunshine, a new king has been crowned. Rosallion’s connections will be eagerly anticipating the next chapter in their colt’s burgeoning career as he looks to build an impressive resume worthy of the greats of the turf.
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