Dual Group One winner Harry Angel, owned by Godolphin, finished a length behind winner Sands Of Mali It was Harry Angel's sixth run at Ascot without managing to win.

 

Trainer Clive Cox said: "He's run an absolute blinder and I'm very pleased with him. He's shown his true level today. It's been a frustrating year because he's been a better horse at home all year, so to bring him here and show everyone else what we've been seeing - that he's a proper, proper Group One horse - I'm very proud of the performance. It's good to sign the season off with him like this. He's a horse who has a change of gear as well, but fair play to Richard [Fahey] - it's his day to day and it is well deserved."

 

Asked whether he was worried when Harry Angel was at first reluctant to enter the stalls, Cox said: "There's always a moment of worry with Harry - he knows what's coming the other side and he likes to get on with it, that's it. But he's equipped himself in the best possible way and I will be looking forward to seeing his stock when he goes to stud."

 

Jockey Adam Kirby said: "Of course I'm proud of him - he's a superstar, isn't he? It's a shame to get beat but nice to end things on a high. He's been a great horse. The ground here just blunts his gear-change, so I feel a bit sorry for him. 

 

"Harry Angel probably gets a little bit claustrophobic in the stalls, but one thing I will say is well done to Clive Cox and all involved with the horse. They have always done a remarkable job with him - not only do you have to train a champion but you also have to train his mind as well.

"It has not been an easy run for Clive. He is a great guy to deal with and fair play to him. I am just a little gutted that the horse was beaten - I think he would have taken them apart if the ground was livelier. It was a bit of a bog out there and the last furlong is exceptionally slow.

 

"But he owes us nothing; he's been a fantastic sprinter and a pleasure to deal with."