Royal Patronage stamps himself as a Doncaster Mile contender
Royal Patronage has made an early statement this autumn, securing a determined first-up win in the Group 1 Canterbury Stakes at Randwick.
Kicking off his second preparation under Tulloch Lodge, the six-year-old settled just behind the pace, tracking Here To Shock ($8.50) before surging past in the closing stages to claim victory at a generous $20. Race favourite Magic Time ($4.40) finished strongly for third but was slightly unlucky after being held up at the top of the straight.
Trainer Adrian Bott admitted he had concerns about the 1300m distance but was thrilled with the performance. “To do what he did first start in Australia... we’ve always had a big circle around the Doncaster for him,” he said.
Jockey Tim Clark was equally impressed, highlighting the horse’s composure. “He did fill me with confidence throughout the race and I knew when I got into a dogfight late he was going to be there for me.”
Meanwhile, Ceolwulf, who was dropping back in trip after missing the Verry Elleegant Stakes, ran on well to finish fifth.
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