Twelve-time Royal Ascot winner Wesley Ward returns to the June 14-18 meeting where the American trainer will be represented by headline acts Golden Pal (Uncle Mo) in the Gr.1 King’s Stand Stakes (1000m) and Campanelle (Kodiac) in the Gr.1 Platinum Jubilee (1200m).
But in addition to the established stars, Ward will also have his eyes on claiming another edition of the Gr.2 Queen Mary Stakes (1000m), having captured the juvenile fillies race on four occasions.
Judging by how brilliant filly Love Reigns (US Navy Flag) captured her debut at Keeneland, he might not have to wait much longer for number five.
From the first crop of European champion US Navy Flag, Love Reigns wasn’t quickest from the gate in the 1100m maiden special weight, but the 2.20-1 favourite soon showed her class.
Even better for her Royal Ascot prospects, Love Reigns extended her advantage in the home straight to finish 9 3/4 lengths clear in a time of 1:02.33. According to Daily Racing Form, that’s the fastest time posted by a juvenile over the course and distance.
US Navy Flag stands at The Oaks Stud in New Zealand, having started his Southern hemisphere stud career at Valachi Downs.
Progeny of the multiple Group One winning son of War Front proved popular at the New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sales at Karaka in March and the young stallion is again well represented at the forthcoming NZB Weanling Sale on June 17.
