Old Is Gold Sparkles At Beverley and Sets Sights Set For Royal Ascot

Old Is Gold continued his rapid ascent through the juvenile ranks with a commanding victory in the bet365 Two Year Old Trophy EBF Conditions Stakes at Beverley Racecourse on May 24th, a performance that now puts him firmly on course for a tilt at the Group 2 Norfolk Stakes at Royal Ascot.

Sent off the 6/5 favourite under P.J. McDonald, the son of Mehmas showed professionalism beyond his years, travelling powerfully behind the leaders before quickening smartly in the final furlong to win by an emphatic 1½ lengths. The Andrew Balding trained colt Old Is Gold put daylight between himself and the well-fancied Naval Light, with Raakeb plugging on for third. It was a performance that had "Royal Ascot" written all over it.

What makes Old Is Gold's rise even more impressive is how swiftly he’s made an impact since being purchased at the breeze-up sales earlier this spring. Picked up by Opulence Thoroughbreds at Tattersalls Craven Breeze Up Sale, the colt impressed with a fluent workout and an excellent temperament — hallmarks that have carried seamlessly into his racing career. In just a matter of months, he has gone from unraced prospect to Class 2 winner, exemplifying the kind of value and readiness buyers seek in the breeze-up market. 

With Beverley now in the rear-view mirror, the focus shifts to Royal Ascot, where Old Is Gold is being aimed at the Norfolk Stakes — a race that has launched the careers of many elite sprinters. The five-furlong Group 2 contest will be a tougher test, but if Beverley is anything to go by, he will arrive at Ascot with a live chance.

Stay tuned as Old Is Gold looks to strike gold once again — this time on the grandest stage of all, Royal Ascot.