Brazen Beau’s The Ridler In Controversial Norfolk Win

[Wandering Eyes]

Dreams came true in Royal Ascot's opener on Thursday for Steve Bradley as his homebred The Ridler (GB) (Brazen Beau {Aus}) came out on top in the G2 Norfolk S. to gain a 'Win and You're In' berth at the Breeders' Cup. Sent off at 50-1 following a promising but unexciting third placing in Beverley's Two Year Old Trophy Conditions S. over this five-furlong trip May 28, the bay gained extra significance here ridden by Paul Hanagan whose longstanding relationship with the Richard Fahey stable was announced to have come to an official end last month. Proving there was no fall-out, the pair came together to enjoy the biggest shock in the race's history, which they had landed 12 months ago with Perfect Power (Ire) (Ardad {Ire}). It was not earned without controversy, however. Anchored early behind the leaders up the centre, The Ridler produced a strong run to overhaul TDN Rising Star and 7-4 favourite Walbank (Ire) (Kodiac {GB}) with half a furlong remaining en route to a 1 3/4-length score. That was only half the story, as the winner had drifted markedly left before hitting the front and significantly hampered Crispy Cat (GB) (Ardad {Ire}), who ended up a neck behind in third having had his momentum checked at a crucial stage. The fourth, Brave Nation (Ire) (Sioux Nation), also met with major interference as a result of the winner's drift but the stewards opted relatively quickly to leave the order as it finished.

 

A 50/1 winner in the opener of the third day at Royal Ascot. The Ridler wins the G2 Norfolk Stakes but a stewards enquiry has been called. pic.twitter.com/sB7SuzlhXi

— TDN (@theTDN) June 16, 2022

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