Newmarket stables in rude health ahead of Eclipse showdown

Godolphin runners made hay in the traditionally quiet period in the UK following Royal Ascot, with 10 winners from Godolphin Stables and Moulton Paddocks highlighting the strong form of both yards ahead of an important week.

Rebel’s Romance secured his first win since last year’s G2 UAE Derby as he comfortably accounted for Kemari in the Listed Fred Archer Stakes at Newmarket. Having highlighted his versatility with a first win on turf, a return to Group company is on the cards for the son of Dubawi, with next month’s G3 Geoffrey Freer Stakes at Newbury a potential next step.

Two exciting juveniles from Moulton Paddocks also displayed their potential with impressive victories. Teofilo colt Naval Power made it two wins from as many starts when defying a penalty at Leicester, while Dubawi filly Fairy Cross scored in dominant fashion at Newmarket.

Godolphin Stables enjoyed a highly productive week, with six winners from 10 runners. Meydan graduates Dubai Mirage and Dubai Icon struck at Salisbury and Windsor respectively, with City Walk and Arabian Warrior winning at Newcastle.

Shining Blue was also successful at Newcastle as he maintained his unbeaten record to set up a crack at a Listed race over the coming weeks.

Fellow four-year-old Warm Smile made an impressive handicap debut at Newmarket, with the New Approach filly storming to a five and a half-length success.

Both Newmarket stables will be hoping that the excellent run of form continues into this Saturday’s G1 Eclipse Stakes, with Irish 2,000 Guineas victor Native Trail and Queen Anne Stakes runner-up Real World on course for the first proper clash of the generations.

Hurricane Lane and Yibir remain in contention for Sunday’s Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud, one of a handful of G1 races in Europe that hasn’t been won by the royal blue silks.