Godolphin Adayar makes history secures Derby-King George double

Gulf Today, Report


Adayar emulated a select group of outstanding colts to win both the Derby and King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes with a superb display in the midsummer highlight at Ascot, UK, on Saturday.

The homebred son of Frankel became the 14th horse to complete the Epsom-Ascot G1 double in the same season, adding his name to an illustrious list that includes Nijinsky, Mill Reef, Shergar, Nashwan, Generous, Lammtarra and his own grandsire Galileo.

Adayar disputed the early running with Irish Derby runner-up Lone Eagle, the only other three-year-old in the 12-furlong highlight, until Broome recovered from a slow start to lead the five-strong field after the first two furlongs.

The Charlie Appleby-trained colt continued to race keenly alongside Lone Eagle before settling better in a clear second as the field passed Swinley Bottom with a mile to race.

Adayar closed in on Broome turning for home and the Godolphin contender took up the running under William Buick approaching the final quarter-mile.

Dubai Sheema Classic winner Mishriff laid down a stern challenge a furlong and a half out but Adayar responded gamely before powering clear inside the final furlong for a length and three-quarter success, with the same margin back to Love in third.