 |
|
| Sumita Pawar |
 |
On Tuesday, Triple Time's impressive victory in the Queen Anne Stakes, the opening day's main event, allowed Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum to proudly represent Dubai connections at Royal Ascot.
Sheikh Mohammed's Winning Lineage
Sheikh Mohammed, who had previously achieved big-race triumph by winning the Epsom Derby with High Rise in 1998, was acknowledged for his dedication to breeding top-notch racehorses as he produced Triple Time from the lineage of champion racehorse, Frankel.
Despite being a long shot at odds of 33/1, Triple Time received excellent riding from Irish jockey Neil Callan, who narrowly defeated second-favorite Inspiral, ridden by Frankie Dettori, by a neck.
As the race approached the final furlong, it seemed like Dettori had secured the win, but with every stride, Triple Time, under the guidance of Callan, displayed tremendous determination and courage, ultimately clawing his way back into the race.
Trusting The Trainer For Victory
“I always leave the planning to the trainer (Jevin Ryan) because he knows what is best for the horse,” Sheikh Mohammed told ITV racing.
“We always liked this horse but we were patient with him and waited for the right race because he does not act on soft ground. The Queen Anne was the one.
“Full credit to the jockey he rode a perfect race even though it was close,” he added.
“I’m speechless for once, and a bit emotional,” said Callan. “It’s some feeling Royal Ascot."
Ryan backed up that sentiment when he said, “It wasn’t a surprise to us, we’ve always had a lot of faith in him (Triple Time). We had a plan in our head and Neil delivered it to a tee.”
Jockeys Compete In Prestigious Races
Jockey William Buick rode Godolphin's Modern Games to a fourth-place finish, while James Doyle guided stable companion Native Trail to eighth place.
Meanwhile, Neil Callan, an Irish jockey with experience in big races worldwide, including Germany, Italy, and Hong Kong, was the champion jockey in Bahrain during the 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 racing seasons.
Callan returned to Britain in 2021 after a seven-year stint in Hong Kong and added, “When I came back from Hong Kong I didn’t know what to expect, you’re not guaranteed anything in this game, but I’m lucky Kevin Ryan gave me a bit of support.
"He was so confident in this horse, he said he’s the best he’s ever trained, so it’s fantastic.”