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| Staff Writer |
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Trawlerman delivered a commanding performance under William Buick to secure the Henry II Stakes at Sandown, providing the perfect springboard for his Royal Ascot ambitions.
The John and Thady Gosden-trained 7YO made light work of his rivals, dictating from the front before pulling clear over the final two furlongs. The Godolphin-owned gelding extended his advantage up the hill to win by five lengths from Coltrane.
Thady Gosden was delighted with the execution of their tactical approach. "That was exactly what we wanted to see. It was a small field and the plan was to go from the front with him and just let him find a rhythm, which William did very well," the trainer explained.
The victory represented a significant step forward in Trawlerman's preparation for the Ascot Gold Cup, where he finished second last year. Gosden emphasised the importance of this preparatory run compared to their previous campaign.
"Last year we went straight to the Gold Cup after Dubai, but this year we felt a prep run would suit him well. He's not having an overly hard blow there, he seems in good order and hopefully he comes out of it well," he noted.
The trainer praised his gelding's generous nature whilst highlighting the tactical adjustments that have enhanced his effectiveness. "He's such a giving, generous horse he almost does too much and wearing a hood almost just settles him down and helps him find that rhythm as you have seen."
The recent retirement of dual Gold Cup winner Kyprios has significantly altered the landscape of the staying division, creating fresh opportunities for horses like Trawlerman.
Gosden acknowledged the impact whilst remaining focused on his charge's prospects. "Obviously it's sad and unfortunate news for Coolmore and Ballydoyle having to retire Kyprios which no one likes to see so early into the Flat season, but it also changes the dynamic of the staying division.
"But he's a grand old boy now Trawlerman and it would be great if he could now go on to win a big one. He wears his heart on his sleeve every time and he's almost part of the furniture now and it's great Godolphin have kept him in training so long."