Spycatcher narrowly misses out on Group One victory at Deauville

King Gold Lunges Late to Deny British Raiders Spycatcher and Saint Lawrence in Epic Battle

In a thrilling renewal of the Arc Prix Maurice de Gheest at Deauville, King Gold showcased his brilliance by lunging late to deny the British raiders top-level success. The race featured a field of ten sprinters, dominated by the visiting contenders.

Spycatcher, trained by Karl Burke, was narrowly favored after his recent course victory. Adding further strength to the raiding party were Cold Case from Burke’s stable, Art Power sent by Tim Easterby following his win at Curragh just two weeks ago, and Saint Lawrence trained by Archie Watson hoping to supplement Royal Ascot success.

The race began with Art Power taking up his customary pacesetting role under David Allan. However, he proved unable to maintain his momentum as they entered the final furlong. At this point, it seemed like Spycatcher would secure victory for Highclere Thoroughbred Racing after taking over the lead.

Yet amidst all expectations on Spycatcher’s shoulders stood Stephane Pasquier with an ace up his sleeve – Nicolas Caullery-trained grey King Gold. Settling towards the back for most of the six-and-a-half-furlong journey proved beneficial as Pasquier unleashed a late challenge that saw King Gold snatch victory from Spycatcher’s grasp in a nail-biting finish.

A Photo Finish: Intensity Unleashed!

Saint Lawrence put on an impressive performance as well and finished just behind Spycatcher in third place. With a clearer passage, he might have been even closer to victory. The race left spectators on the edge of their seats!

Highclere’s managing director, Harry Herbert, praised Spycatcher’s remarkable effort: “Maxime (Guyon) said he was in front just before the line and after the line. He’s run an absolutely fantastic race. It’s extraordinary what Karl and his team have done.”

Reflecting on the outcome, Herbert couldn’t hide his disappointment but also expressed gratitude for Spycatcher’s resilience: “It’s disappointing not to win, but at the same time we’re so thankful he’s doing what he’s doing…he’s pretty special.”

Celebrating Success as History is Made

Nicolas Caullery, saddling his first Group One winner with King Gold “It’s a beautiful moment – it’s unbelievable…He can do a lot of things…He’s a strong horse with a great mind.”

The owner-breeder connection made this triumph even more special for Caullery: “The owner is also the breeder and it’s a magic day.” Reflecting on King Gold’s journey throughout this year, he added: “When he came back to France…now a Group One winner—it’s fabulous!”

A Bright Future Awaits

The thrilling finish of Arc Prix Maurice de Gheest has left fans eagerly anticipating future races. Bookmakers were quick to react positively as Coral slashed Spycatcher’s odds from 16-1 to 10-1 for the upcoming Sprint Cup at Haydock.

Herbert remained optimistic about their chances moving forward while acknowledging their competitive spirit: “We’re all pretty competitive so getting beaten in a Group One by a short head is agony right now – but he’s absolutely lethal when ground conditions are as easy as they are here and hopefully next time the nod goes our way.”

Life in horse racing is full of twists and turns, and it’s these thrilling moments that keep fans hooked. As we celebrate King Gold’s triumph, let us cherish every exhilarating day on the racetrack.