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On the eve of Diamond Jubilee weekend, the Queen's Carlton House made a winning return to the track when landing the Group 3 Brigadier Gerard Stakes.
Photo by Racing and Sports
Last year's Derby favourite had not been seen since finishing fourth in the Irish Derby but overcame freshness to win with something in hand.
The subject of some favourable gallop reports in the lead-up to the race, Carlton House was sent off the 10-11 favourite on his first start over 1m2f since landing the Dante Stakes last May.
Racing keenly behind runners, Carlton House appeared full of running as the field swept into the straight but for a few anxious moments there was a worry that the favourite may be denied a clear run.
However, pacesetters I'm A Dreamer and Colombian momentarily parted and Carlton House was soon sharing the lead.
Asked for his effort, the son of Street Cry found an impressive change of speed to put the race to bed, with Sagramor putting in a strong finished to take second at 25-1.
"I didn't feel a great deal of pressure, " said winning trainer Sir Michael Stoute. "We were happy with his homework and he was as fit as we could get him.
"He's been off 11 months but we were hopeful because he's quality. What pleased me most was that he really wanted it."
Regarding future target, Stoure added: "I wouldn't want to go any further than 10f and the Prince Of Wales's Stakes [at Royal Ascot] would be next. After that we will see."
The runner-up was cut to 10-1 (from 20-1) with William Hill for the Royal Hunt Cup, although trainer Hughie Morrison has one eye on the Wolferton Handicap at the royal meeting.
Godolphin's Hunter's Light was back in third.
