Field Of Gold Shines at Sandown, Live on ITV Racing

Live on ITV Racing, Field Of Gold delivered a significant victory for John and Thady Gosden, building on the promise of his maiden win by capturing the Sky Bet Solario Stakes at Sandown.

It has been a challenging season so far for the Clarehaven trainers and jockey Kieran Shoemark, but Field Of Gold now presents a real contender for the major autumn juvenile contests and next year’s big races.

The colt’s sire, Kingman, also triumphed in the Group Three contest for John Gosden back in 2013. This win marks the elder Gosden’s seventh victory in the race and the second in collaboration with his son, following Reach For The Moon’s win in 2021.

Royal Playwright attempted to lead from the start, but Shoemark remained composed, allowing Field Of Gold to pull two lengths ahead when given the signal. Matauri Bay closed the gap to three-quarters of a length, but the 5-4 favourite always appeared in control.

Thady Gosden commented,

“He’s obviously progressed and had a nice break since his last run. As you saw, he quickened up nicely. They didn’t go much of a gallop early on, and once he hit the front, he was having a good look around. He’s a horse with plenty of class.”

Gosden continued:

“He’s benefitted from the break since winning his maiden and still has plenty of development left. Today, he relied a lot on natural ability. It was a deep field, and hopefully, he will keep improving. There’s plenty of scope for next year, and like his sire, he has a fantastic mind that will help his progress.”

Looking ahead to potential races, Gosden noted:

“There are two big races at the end of the season—the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere and the Dewhurst Stakes. We’ll talk to the owners, but he won in a style today that suggests those could be his next steps. It’s all about having horses that can progress from two to three, and he’s certainly one we’re excited about.”

Barry Mahon, European racing manager for Juddmonte, is leaning towards the French option, stating:

“He’s a big horse who will be even better as he strengthens. He’ll have no problem with a mile, and the Jean-Luc Lagardere looks like a natural next step.”

Field Of Gold is now priced at 16-1 with Coral for next year’s 2000 Guineas, with Matauri Bay available at 20-1.

Trainer Ralph Beckett, reflecting on Matauri Bay’s performance, said:

“He was a little green around the bend, and we probably lost some momentum when they slowed the pace. He made up plenty of ground in the final furlong and put in a strong effort. We’ll consider the Lagardere and other Group One races. He moved like a horse who would appreciate some softer ground, and with Sandown’s conditions, that could work to our advantage if the rain comes next month.”