Gewan Causes Upset in Darley Dewhurst Stakes
Gewan shocked the racing world, winning the darley Dewhurst Stakes at Newmarket at odds of 25-1. The Andrew Balding-trained colt, previously impressive in the Acomb Stakes but disappointing in the Champagne Stakes, surged to victory under James Doyle.
Doyle positioned Gewan prominently throughout the race, injecting a strong pace three furlongs out. He quickly opened up a lead, leaving rivals Gstaad, Distant Storm, and the previously unbeaten Zavateri trailing. Gewan ultimately beat Aidan O’Brien’s 7-4 favorite Gstaad by three-quarters of a length, with Distant Storm and Zavateri finishing third and fourth respectively.
This victory mirrors Balding’s success in 2022 with Chaldean, who also won the Acomb Stakes before going on to claim the 2000 Guineas. Balding believes Gewan was overpriced,citing his strong performance at York and attributing his Doncaster disappointment to the soft ground. He praised Doyle’s ride and highlighted the horse’s potential, noting similarities to Chaldean.
Doyle himself was confident in Gewan’s ability, stating he ”killed them off” between the three and two furlong markers and felt like a “good horse.”
In a separate highlight, Billy Loughnane showcased his talent by guiding Beylerbeyi to victory in the Club Godolphin cesarewitch Handicap, bringing the horse from last to first in a remarkable performance.
