A potential Hong Kong campaign could be on the horizon for the globetrotting miler Royal Patronage if he can build on his first-up victory in the Canterbury Stakes and continue his success during the Sydney autumn carnival.
The well-travelled entire, who has raced in England and America before arriving in Australia last year, will line up in the Group 1 George Ryder Stakes (1500m) at Rosehill on Saturday. This race serves as a key stepping stone toward next month’s Doncaster Mile (1600m).
His performances in both races will play a crucial role in determining his future plans, with an overseas trip and a potential start in the Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2000m) just a week after the Doncaster both under consideration.
“We’ve put in a nomination for Hong Kong, so his next two runs will determine whether he’s ready for that challenge or if it fits well with his program,” co-trainer Adrian Bott said.
“Nothing has been decided beyond the Doncaster. Whether he’s progressed enough to step up to a Queen Elizabeth, all those options remain open.”
Royal Patronage made a strong impression in Australia by winning the Tramway Stakes on his debut in September. He was competitive against top-tier horses like Ceolwulf and Fangirl during the spring, and both will be among his rivals again at Rosehill. Bott is confident that Royal Patronage has improved significantly since his last campaign and is ready to challenge them once more.
“He needed to step up to a new level in his first-up run this preparation compared to what we saw last time, and I think his performance showed just how well he has come back and the improvement he has made,” Bott said.
“That win wasn’t a fluke. He’s a genuine weight-for-age performer, and he’s ready to back that up again on Saturday.”
Royal Patronage has been nominated for the Champions Mile (1600m) and the QEII Cup (2000m) at Sha Tin on April 27, with the Champions Mile being the preferred option.
Bott and his training partner Gai Waterhouse are also looking forward to seeing Sydney Cup hopeful Alalcance build on her impressive first-up win when she contests the N E Manion Cup (2400m). The former Irish mare has yet to finish outside the top two in her four Australian starts, successfully transitioning to black-type company with her victory in the Randwick City Stakes (2000m) last time out.
“She’s a genuine staying type and is on a clear path toward the Sydney Cup,” Bott said. “She’s done well since her last run, and I expect her to perform strongly again.”
