In a stunning upset at the Queen Anne Stakes, Ten Bob Tony triumphed at odds of 50-1, marking a remarkable beginning to Royal Ascot. The race, held recently, featured intense competition, especially from Opera Ballo, who initially led the pack. However, Ten Bob Tony and More Thunder made a late charge, ultimately securing the victory.
Race Overview
Jockey Kieran Shoemark rode Ten Bob Tony, who finished strong after starting from the back of the field. Meanwhile, Opera Ballo, piloted by Billy Loughnane, attempted to maintain his lead but could not withstand the late surge. More Thunder claimed second place. The pre-race favorite, Notable Speech, struggled and did not factor in the race outcome.
Historical Context
This year’s Queen Anne Stakes continued a trend of unexpected winners. Previous longshots included Accidental Agent, who won in 2018 at 33-1, and Triple Time, victorious in 2023 at the same odds. Last year, Docklands triumphed at 14-1, highlighting the unpredictability of this prestigious event.
Trainer and Owner Insights
- Kieran Shoemark remarked on Ten Bob Tony’s strong performance, stating he was surprised but pleased with the outcome.
- Trainer Ed Walker praised owner Simon Sadler for encouraging Ten Bob Tony to run despite concerns over the ground conditions.
- Walker noted the racing surface was ideal, likening it to a “carpet,” which informed their race strategy.
Walker also referenced previous success, recalling Harry Eustace’s win with Docklands, emphasizing that taking the risk could yield rewards.
Future Plans for Competitors
Trainer Charlie Appleby discussed future races for Opera Ballo and Notable Speech. He indicated a plan to separate their upcoming outings, suggesting that Opera Ballo could shine in the Sussex Stakes.
As Royal Ascot continues, the performance of Ten Bob Tony sets a high bar for the rest of the meeting, promising more surprises ahead.
