Thrilling Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes Showdown Awaits at Royal Ascot
In the lead-up to the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot, trainer Kevin Ryan exudes confidence that his improving sprinter, Washington Heights, can mix it with the top contenders. The four-year-old colt recently beat rival Mill Stream in the Abernant Stakes and narrowly missed out in a tight finish to the Duke of York Stakes, hinting at his potential to shine on the grandest stage.
“I have no doubt he’s capable of being competitive at Group One level,” said Ryan, who has guided the careers of accomplished speedsters like Brando, Glass Slippers, and Hello Youmzain in recent seasons. “He’s done all his serious work now and is right where I want him going into Ascot.”
Owned by Hambleton Racing, Washington Heights’ journey has been a thrilling one for his connections. “The owners of Washington Heights have enjoyed a great journey with him so far and are living every moment,” said the operation’s racing manager, Cosmo Charlton. “Win, lose or draw, the day should make some more special memories for his owners.”
Hambleton Racing will be well-represented at the Royal meeting, with the Archie Watson-trained duo of Tempus and Beamish also set to take their chances. Tempus, a consistent performer in the Royal Hunt Cup, will look to improve on his previous third and seventh-place finishes, while the talented stayer Beamish aims to make an impact in the Copper Horse Handicap after a promising reappearance run at Newbury.
As the anticipation builds for the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes, Ryan and the Hambleton team are eager to see Washington Heights showcase his ability against the sport’s elite sprinters. “Not much beats having a runner at Royal Ascot,” Charlton remarked. “Winning down there is something special, but we tend to find our owners have a great day whatever the result.”
With the stage set for an electrifying showdown, the horse racing world will be tuning in to see if Washington Heights can make the step up and claim a coveted Group One prize at the iconic Royal Ascot meeting.
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