LOVE HAD TO battle hard for a triumphant return in what proved to be an epic renewal of the Prince of Wales’ Stakes at Royal Ascot.
Aidan O’Brien’s dual Classic heroine was back on a racecourse for the first time in 300 days, since completing a clean sweep of three 2020 victories when she added the Yorkshire Oaks to her 1000 Guineas and Oaks successes.
In the absence of Lord North, who would have been her market rival but was pulled out of his attempt to defend his crown here because of fast ground, 11-10 favourite Love made all – but had a fight on her hands all the way up the straight as James Fanshawe’s Breeders’ Cup winner Audarya launched a persistent challenge.
LOVE. ❤️
— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) June 16, 2021
LOVE. ❤️
LOVE! ❤️
Just brilliant once again to win the Prince of Wales' Stakes!#RoyalAscot | #VMTVRacing pic.twitter.com/8i8lwS5tu4
But Love would not be denied and was on top at the line by three-quarters of a length from Audarya, who was also having her first run since last year, with O’Brien’s second-string Armory third.
Ryan Moore had the winner settled in front, with Audarya and My Oberon pulling hard behind, and Love’s relaxed demeanour – on the fast ground which suits her so well – helped her keep enough in hand when she needed it in the final two furlongs.
QUICK SUZY! ⚡️@gavincromwell1's first ever runner at Royal Ascot is a winner! 🇮🇪
— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) June 16, 2021
A first Royal Ascot winner for jockey @garyfcarroll too! 🇮🇪#RoyalAscot | #VMTVRacing pic.twitter.com/PsGgWg5BPr
Earlier, trainer Gavin Cromwell celebrated success with his first-ever runner at Royal Ascot as Quick Suzy came home first in the Queen Mary Stakes.
Quick Suzy’s win also represented a first Royal Ascot success for jockey Gary Carroll, with favourite Twilight Gleaming a furlong behind in second and Cheerupsleepyjean another two lengths back in third.
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