Ceolwulf takes the crown in the 2025 King Charles III Stakes

Joe Pride has pulled another rabbit out of the hat, with his decision to fit blinkers to star gelding Ceolwulf proving the winning move as the classy five-year-old defended his crown in the $5 million King Charles III Stakes at Randwick.

After a patchy 12 months following his Epsom Handicap–King Charles III Stakes double last year, Ceolwulf rediscovered his spark when Pride opted to make a key gear change for his grand final target. The result was emphatic — a brilliant return to form that reaffirmed Pride’s belief in the gelding’s immense talent.

“I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again — he’s the best horse I’ve ever trained,” Pride said. “It’s been a long year waiting for him to show it again. We’ve had some firm tracks, a few little excuses along the way, but today he reminded everyone how good he really is.”

After settling midfield under Chad Schofield, Ceolwulf ($10) surged along the rail and put his rivals to the sword, racing clear to defeat Mr Brightside ($4.20 fav) by 1¾ lengths, with Pier ($51) running on gamely into third.

“Joe’s just a genius,” Schofield said post-race. “He kept the blinkers up his sleeve for the right day, and they made all the difference. I’ve always believed in this horse, and when he’s switched on like that, he’s nearly unbeatable.”

The race was run at an even tempo, with Pride Of Jenni setting up a strong gallop before Ceolwulf unleashed his trademark turn of foot in the straight. It was a dominant performance that stamped him as one of Australia’s best milers once again.

“He’s got all the attributes — toughness, class, and that will to win,” Pride said. “It’s been a while between drinks for him, but the blinkers really sharpened him up. I think this will give him a lot of confidence heading into Melbourne.”

Ceolwulf will now head south to tackle one of the major races on Champions Day at Flemington, where Pride believes the horse can go to another level again. “He’s flying, and we’ll give him a chance to show it down there,” he said.

For punters keen to follow Ceolwulf through the spring, check out the latest markets, odds, and bookmaker offers on The King Charles III Stakes and upcoming Group 1 features at Australia’s top betting sites.