Wesley Ward believes "awesome specimen" Golden Pal can make it third time lucky on UK turf.
The early favourite for the King's Stand Stakes at Royal Ascot has not won either of his starts in the UK. A close runner-up in the 2020 Norfolk Stakes, he was only seventh when prominent in the betting for last year's Nunthorpe at York. Since his trip to England, he has delighted fans with his customary front-running displays. He made a sparkling comeback in the Grade 2 Shakertown Stakes at Keeneland on April 9, where he bolted up by almost five lengths.
Ward said: “Golden Pal is doing great, he really is. I have been singing this horse's praises for a couple of years now and the only thing he hasn't done yet is win on your patch (UK). Hopefully, he can get it done! It was a powerful performance from him in the Shakertown – but it was a comeback and I really think his next run is going to be something special. He is a once in a lifetime horse – certainly the best I have ever had – and I think he will stamp that with his performance at Ascot if he runs like I am expecting him to.
