Ceolwulf wins narrowly in Neville Sellwood Stakes
Ceolwulf finally broke through for his first win of the autumn carnival, narrowly claiming victory in the Neville Sellwood Stakes at Rosehill after a tense finish.
Last spring’s Group 1 Epsom Handicap and King Charles III Stakes winner, Ceolwulf is targeting the Group 1 Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2000m) at Randwick, and Tuesday’s Group 2 2000m contest on rain-affected ground served as his final prep run before the major assignment.
Backed into a $1.50 favourite with the online bookmakers, Ceolwulf took up a handy position early under jockey Chad Schofield, settling just behind the early leaders.
Just Fine showed grit to continue fighting after leading into the straight, but Ceolwulf lunged at the line to win by the barest margin. Our Gold Hope was another nose away in third, making for a thrilling three-way photo.
Trainer Joe Pride quickly sought Schofield’s input after the finish and noted the key was ensuring Ceolwulf had a strong workout over 2000m ahead of his major target next weekend.
“It wasn’t really the result that counted today,” Pride said.
“It’s easy to say after a race, but it was more about the performance.
“He presented like he was going to win by a couple of lengths but he didn’t do that. It will be interesting to get Chad’s thoughts, because I think he’s got a really good understanding of this horse.
“That was only his second go on a heavy track, and while he went really well on it in the Derby when he was younger, maybe he would prefer something a little bit firmer than that now.”
Pride added that Ceolwulf was burdened with 59.5kg on a tough surface and was stepping up significantly from 1500m after a narrow loss in the Group 1 George Ryder Stakes.
“And that’s why I wanted to run him over 2000m today because I do believe the majority of my horses, and this horse as well, their second run they have over 2000m they’re going to be better,” Pride said.
“And he needs to be better. He’ll have to be a lot better next week.”
Pride confirmed Ceolwulf would have two solid gallops before lining up in the Queen Elizabeth.
Following the tight win, Ceolwulf moved into second favouritism at $6 for the
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