Insights from those involved: King George Stakes
William Muir Confident Pyledriver Will Give a Fierce Challenge in King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Qipco Stakes
The much-anticipated renewal of the King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Qipco Stakes is expected to be a thrilling battle, with William Muir expressing confidence that his star horse, Pyledriver, will not relinquish his crown without putting up a fight. The six-year-old gelding made headlines last season by defeating several top contenders in Ascot’s midsummer highlight and clinching his second Group One victory after winning the 2021 Coronation Cup.
Pyledriver had faced setbacks due to niggling injuries which prevented him from participating in prestigious races such as Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe and international events in Japan, Hong Kong, and Dubai. However, he showcased his unwavering talent by triumphing in the Hardwicke Stakes at Royal Ascot last month after an eleven-month hiatus.
Despite his impressive performances, Pyledriver finds himself ranked fifth in the betting charts for his return to Berkshire. Nevertheless, trainer William Muir believes underestimating their formidable champion would be unwise.
“This race boasts an exceptional field of competitors, and we are thrilled to be part of it,” said Muir confidently. “Since our success in the Hardwicke Stakes, everything has been going well for us. We eagerly anticipate this challenge.”
Muir added: “We have no concerns about the ground conditions; this is exactly what we live for – horses competing at esteemed races held at magnificent venues like Ascot.”
The defending champion faces tough competition from other seasoned campaigners such as Hukum trained by Owen Burrows. Like Pyledriver, Hukum has also made a successful comeback following an injury layoff, defeating last year’s Derby winner, Desert Crown, in the Brigadier Gerard Stakes at Sandown in May. Having opted out of a clash with Pyledriver in the Hardwicke due to unsuitable ground conditions, Hukum’s connections are delighted that rain has arrived and are hoping for an impressive performance on Saturday.
Angus Gold, racing manager for owners Shadwell, expressed his excitement about the race: “The King George is always a fabulous event; let’s hope this year lives up to its billing. As far as I know (touch wood), Hukum is in good form and the ground conditions favor him now. It all comes down to luck during the race and whether he can prove himself against tough competitors.”
The field also features two talented three-year-olds who recently battled it out in an intense contest – Auguste Rodin and King Of Steel. These promising colts finished first and second respectively at Epsom’s prestigious Derby last month. Aidan O’Brien-trained Auguste Rodin secured victory again at Curragh, becoming a dual Derby winner. Meanwhile, Roger Varian’s King Of Steel showcased his dominance by triumphing convincingly in the King Edward VII Stakes at Royal Ascot.
Trainer Roger Varian shared his enthusiasm about the impending rematch between these young talents: “We’re excited! King Of Steel is training well and looks fantastic; he’s raring to go! We hope he can adapt to any ground condition we encounter on Saturday.”
John Gosden has achieved tremendous success over the years as a trainer of five previous winners of the prestigious King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Qipco Stakes – Nathaniel (2011), Taghrooda (2014), Enable (2017-2020). This time around, John Gosden alongside his son Thady is represented by another exceptional filly, Emily Upjohn. She recently secured a victory in the Coronation Cup at Epsom and delivered an exhilarating battle with Paddington in a thrilling Eclipse race at Sandown.
Gosden expressed his optimism about Emily Upjohn’s chances: “Following her successful performance in the Eclipse, she has recovered well. Now, we are increasing the distance to a mile and a half. She demonstrated her capabilities over this distance before.”
As anticipation builds for the King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Qipco Stakes, fans eagerly await witnessing these remarkable horses compete against each other on Ascot’s prestigious turf.