Wootton Bassett Colt Uncatchable In Acomb Stakes

Royal Patronage (2c Wootton Bassett - Shaloushka, by Dalakhani) stamped his class when leading home a 1-2 for Coolmore sires in the Group 3 Acomb Stakes at York.

An impressive five length winner of his maiden last month, Mark Johnston’s charge followed the same formula of making all the running on Wednesday. Jason Hart was the last to make his move, driving the bay along approaching the final furlong and scored by two and a quarter lengths on the line, as Imperial Fighter (The Gurkha) drew two lengths clear of the third.

“I think to this day, horses who win the Acomb usually are Group 1 horses,” Johnston commented after the race. “I hope Royal Patronage is. He's won a Group 3 and the only way is up.” On specific targets, he said, “I was asked whether he's a Guineas horse, it may be he's more a Dante horse but time will tell.”

Owned by Highclere Thoroughbred Racing, Royal Patronage is the first foal bred by Emma Capon Bloodstock out of Shaloushka, who hails from the family of Shahrastani.