Holy Roman Emperor Colt Lands Coventry Stakes
Rashabar (2c Holy Roman Emperor – Amazonka, by Camelot) announced himself as a talented juvenile when landing a thrilling renewal of the Group 2 Coventry Stakes on the opening day of Royal Ascot.
Brian Meehan’s charge had shown promise on both his starts, having beaten a subsequent Stakes performer on debut, before finishing second at Chester after being slowly away. Partnered by Billy Loughnane for the first time on Tuesday, the Manton Thoroughbreds-owned colt raced prominently on the far side and led the field with over two furlongs left to race. Ridden approaching the final furlong, he dug deep as rivals flashed home on the near side, prevailing by a nose on the line.
“It's a tremendous result,” said the winning trainer. “It wasn't a huge surprise to us. He's felt very good since Chester.”
On future plans, Meehan commented. “The July Stakes comes too soon, but we've always liked the idea of the Prix Morny, while the Richmond Stakes is attractive. We've got to think about Group 1s and the Breeders' Cup is an option at the end of the year.”
Rashabar was bought by Sam Sangster from breeder Haras de Beaufay at the Arqana August Sale for €120,000. He is the first foal out of the unraced Camelot mare Amazonka, whose siblings include Listed scorer Apadanah (Holy Roman Emperor). The exciting colt becomes a 58th individual Group winner by Castlehyde Stud’s Holy Roman Emperor.