Starspangledbanner’s Gstaad Storms To Coventry Stakes Victory

Gstaad (2c Starspangledbanner – Mosa Mina, by Exceed And Excel) proved his class with an impressive win in the Group 2 Coventry Stakes on the opening day of Royal Ascot.

The well-related Starspangledbanner colt was sent off favourite for the race, having shaped like a smart prospect when winning at Navan on debut. Breaking from stall 14 under Ryan Moore, Aidan O’Brien’s charge raced in the stand’s side group and was asked to quicken approaching the two-furlong marker. Soon in front, he powered home under hands and heels to win by three lengths.

“Gstaad was very impressive,” Moore commented. “I thought he travelled beautifully, and we got to the front a long way from home. He's a tall horse and is obviously improving with each run and that was a very good performance.”

The winning trainer added: “He’s a lovely horse. I’m delighted for the lads and for everyone. He didn’t get out for a while and was standing in a queue, but won very nicely first time. He’s making up into a very nice horse and looks like he’ll definitely get seven furlongs.”

Owned by Coolmore partners, Gstaad was bought by MV Magnier as a foal for 450,000gns from breeder Maywood Stud.