Prince Of Wales’s Stakes third for Hawkbill

Hawkbill produced another battling display at G1 level to finish third in the Prince Of Wales’s Stakes over a mile and a quarter at Royal Ascot on Wednesday, 20 June. 

The dual G1 winner, wearing blinkers for the first time, broke smartly under William Buick and disputed second initially before racing in third of the seven runners after the first three furlongs.

The five-year-old horse stayed on to go second at the top of the straight and briefly pressed for the lead approaching the two-furlong pole until Cracksman and Poet’s Word quickened away from the Godolphin runner soon after.  

Hawkbill kept on at the same pace to go down by just over 10 lengths in total behind Poet’s Word, who won in 2m 3.51s on good to firm turf.

Trainer Charlie Appleby commented: “I’m pleased with today’s run, because after a disappointing effort in the G1 Coronation Cup I feel he got himself back on track here. 

“They went a good gallop and, while coming back in trip was not going to suit us, there should be full credit to the winner and second.

“William felt the ground is quick enough out there – it’s good to firm and lovely summer ground, but our horse has won on good and it was fast enough for him. 

“William also said he felt the blinkers were the way forward and to keep them on Hawkbill – he felt the horse had every opportunity to lose interest coming into the straight, but he kept on, was honest and that gained us third place.

“The Juddmonte International [G1, 10f 56y, York], 22 August] looks like being his forte – it’s easier to get on the lead in a race like that, rather than having to dictate it yourself as you do overseas.”

Asked about Investec Derby winner Masar, the trainer replied: “He came out of the race very well, has had an easy 10 days and is just beginning to wind back up again. We’re now working towards the Coral-Eclipse Stakes.”