Auguste Rodin produced a resolute performance under Ryan Moore to win the Prince Of Wales's Stakes on day two at Royal Ascot.
The Aidan O'Brien-trained 13/8 favorite claimed his sixth Group 1 success, winning a distant 1m 2f contest to fend off the challenge of French duo Zarakem (33/1) and Horizon Dore (33/1). I ran bravely against the railing. 7/1).
Following his previous win at Illinois, Moore recorded his 81st win at Royal Ascot. While O'Brien was training, he finished second behind Lester Piggott (116 wins) and Frankie Dettori. This is the 400th Group/Grade 1 winner of his career.
Inspiral was slow to come out of the stalls and was unable to make a hit after racing from the rear for most of the race.
Auguste Rodin, a son of Deep Impact, enjoyed great success in the Derby, Irish Derby, Irish Champion Stakes and Breeders' Cup Turf last season.
Auguste Rodin raced in mid-division before holding off French duo Zarakem and Horizon Dore.
But he also wasn't the most predictable player. As a three-year-old he was a hot favorite in the 2000 Guineas and King George, and as a four-year-old he was a disappointment on his debut in the Dubai Sheema Classic. They were no match for White Birch in their most recent Tattersalls Gold Cup appearance.
Moore said: “He's a great little horse. OK, it hasn't happened a few times, but each time there's been a reason. King George will probably come after a tough run in both derbies, which is a difficult thing to do.
“He took me there and went very well. When I asked him, he showed a lot of courage. He wanted to win. He was a proper horse.”
