The Group I King George VI and Queen Elizabeth (1m 4f) at Ascot overnight was supposed to be a showcase for two outstanding 3YO’s in Westover and Emily Upjohn, but neither could land a punch against the big boys.
Victory went the way of 5YO Harbour Watch stallion stallion Pyledriver beating last year’s Arc winner Toraquator Tasso with Mishriff third.
Trained by William Muir and Chris Grassic, Pyledriver won by nearly three lengths taking his overall record to seven wins from 18 starts.
“I thought for the last two weeks he would win. I didn't care what was in the race. I know they say Westover was fantastic in the Irish Derby and Emily Upjohn is terrific but I know Pyledriver is very, very good. He was showing all the signs at home. We feel sorry for Martin (Dwyer) - he told PJ exactly what to do today and it was brilliant,” said co-trainer William Muir.
He was the longest priced runner in the race, but his connections believed Pyledriver could win.
Also the winner of last year’s Group I Epsom Coronation Cup, Pyledriver is the best of 11 stakes-winners by Acclamation sire Harbour Watch, who shuttled to Australia for two seasons.
He is the best of three winners for La Pyle, a half-sister by Le Havre to Group I winner Mont Ormel and Group III winner Normandel.
