blog eighty 6
Post-Royal Ascot Reflections
Good Monday Morning, everyone —
As always, a quote to kick things off:
“If you don’t fail, you’re not even trying.”
What a week it’s been…
⸻
Goffs London Sale – The Glitz Before the Glory
We kicked things off at the Goffs London Sale in Kensington Gardens — an exclusive, by-invitation-only event that serves up plenty of glamour, networking, and horsepower (both literal and financial). It’s a fascinating opportunity to buy a Royal Ascot runner on the eve of the meeting.
We had Gaga Mate entered in the sale, but he ended up being sold privately the week before. Hopefully one day soon, we’ll have the clients who can spend the serious money this sale demands — we’re building toward that.
⸻
Picnics, Parties & Parking Lot Royalty
Royal Ascot itself started with our now-legendary picnic site. It grew in reputation every day — and by Friday evening, we were easily the biggest and best picnic crew standing. Friends, clients, jockeys, trainers, even curious passers-by all joined in the fun.
These moments — in Car Park 2, in the sun, surrounded by laughter and racing chat — are what fuel us through the long, cold winters. Hats off to Emily, Ella, and Christine, who ran a fantastic week-long picnic operation.
⸻
Five Runners, Big Results, and Rising Stars
We sent five runners to the Royal Meeting, and while our older horses didn’t shine, the two-year-olds absolutely flew the flag for the yard:
• Come On Eiblhin – Debuted in the Group 2 Queen Mary, finishing 9th of 25, just four lengths off the winner and top of her far-side group. A brilliant first run and one to watch.
• Kamakameleon – Ran a huge race in the Listed Windsor Castle, finishing 5th, beaten just two lengths. Looked like a winner at one point!
• Tailgunner Joe – Debuted in the Listed Chesham, finishing 6th alongside a £2m Godolphin colt. The top two here are already being backed for the 2000 Guineas — so this was a thrilling debut in top company.
To put it in perspective: these three youngsters cost £30k, £30k, and £22k. Compare that with their competition, and you can see the real talent — not just on the track, but in our buying team (Pedigree_To_Win and myself). Imagine what we could do with firepower at the sales.
Your Royal Ascot runner could be next. Get in touch. Join the journey.
⸻
Behind the Scenes: The Real Dream Team
While the champagne was flowing at Ascot, the real engine room back home kept everything running smoothly:
• Amedeo and Becky – Outstanding head lads/lasses who run a tight, caring ship.
• Bob – Our race planner, who keeps the runners rolling out week after week.
• Luiz & Emily – Office wizards ensuring smooth logistics at home and at Ascot.
• Sasha & Arabella – Travelling tirelessly between Phantom House and racecourses.
• Vets Alvize, Mike & Siwan – On hand daily to monitor and care for every runner.
It takes an army to produce a week like Royal Ascot, and I couldn’t be more proud or grateful for the team we’ve built.
⸻
Owners, Allies, and the Power of Patience
We’re lucky to have some of the most enthusiastic, engaged, and loyal owners in the game. We treat each horse like a long-term project and partner closely with owners to find value, plan campaigns, and (just as importantly) have fun doing it.
We still have shares available in some exciting two-year-olds.
Plus, we’ll be active at the July Sale to bring in fresh firepower.
If you’ve ever dreamed of Royal Ascot — now’s the time to join us.
⸻
What’s Next: York, Doncaster & The Northumberland Plate
This week, we’re back on the road with several key runners:
• Prague returns in the Group 3 Criterion Stakes at York. He’s in good form, and a bit of rain will suit him.
• Valley of the Kings, a smart import from South Africa, debuts at Doncaster.
• Asgards Captain lines up for the historic Northumberland Plate — a race we’ve long had in mind for him.
We’re proud of how far our small team continues to punch, taking on challenges across the country every week.
⸻
National Racehorse Staff Week: A Salute to the Unsung Heroes
It’s National Racehorse Staff Week, and we’re proud to support the Stable Staff Race at Nottingham once again.
This year, Brae Lezar takes the reins on The Kamikaze King, following in the footsteps of Amber Clements and Oliver Brown. These races are always great fun and a real morale boost for the team.
Best of luck, Brae — enjoy the ride and stay safe!
To all our staff: you are the backbone of everything we do. Thank you.
⸻
A Quick Medical Note…
For those wondering why I was limping around like I’d just dismounted from a camel… a surprise bout of gout in the knee tried to ruin my Friday and Saturday at Ascot. Three painful days later (and a kind assist from James Doyle’s pharmacy collection), I’m back on my feet — just about!
⸻
Final Thought:
“To get something you’ve never had, you have to do something you’ve never done.”
Stay safe, live well, laugh often — and until next time…
Dylan