Ascot Treble Proves Godolphin On Right Course

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed was "delighted" at Godolphin notching three winners on one day at Royal Ascot for the first time, according to John Ferguson, the stable's chief executive and racing manager.

Yesterday's treble, registered by Ribchester (G3 Jersey Stakes), Usherette (G2 Duke Of Cambridge Stakes) and Portage (Royal Hunt Cup), pushed back the boundaries for the global stable.

"Sheikh Mohammed was absolutely delighted, not just for Team Godolphin, but for everybody who follows Godolphin," Ferguson said.

"It shows we are heading in the right direction. I am very, very proud of everybody on the team, whether on the studs, in the stables, or on the racetracks. Everybody is striving in the same direction, and I think it shows," he added.

Godolphin had anticipated a good second day. "We said at the press conference (at Newmarket on Thursday) that Ribchester and Usherette both had great chances, and I think Portage has shown he is a Group horse with his win," he reported.

"Sheikh Mohammed was especially pleased with Ribchester's Jersey win for three reasons. First, he showed he is a very good colt, and that we should be thinking about the G1 Sussex Stakes at Goodwood now. Second, he is by Iffraaj, one of our popular stallions, and third, he is from the family of Dubai Millennium on the dam side," he added.