Soldier’s Heart Dominates in Ripon Champion Trophy with Impressive Front-Running Display

Soldier’s Heart showed his affinity for the Ripon track, delivering a commanding performance in the British Stallion Studs EBF Ripon Champion Two Yrs Old Trophy Stakes. Trained by Simon and Ed Crisford, the two-year-old colt bounced back in style, putting his course knowledge to good use as he led from start to finish.

After being outpaced in the Molecomb Stakes at Goodwood, the decision to return Soldier’s Heart to six furlongs paid off handsomely. His previous comfortable victory at Ripon clearly bolstered his confidence as he lined up against a competitive field of seven seasoned winners.

Rider Harry Davies quickly seized the opportunity to secure the all-important rail position from stall five, and from there, the outcome was never in doubt. Allowed to dictate the tempo, Davies gradually increased the pace, and as the field approached the final furlong, Soldier’s Heart was already well clear, holding a decisive four-length advantage.

Benevento gave chase late on and managed to narrow the gap to two lengths, but he couldn’t catch the 15-8 favourite, who proved simply too strong. Richard Fahey’s Shadow Army, a runner-up in the Group One Phoenix Stakes on his previous outing, was a disappointment, finishing last as something appeared amiss with him.

Davies was full of praise for Soldier’s Heart, noting how much the colt has progressed: “He’s come on leaps and bounds since his last run. He jumped out the gates perfectly today and was far more streetwise. The experience of racing here before definitely worked in his favor.”

“He’s a compact horse, bred for speed, and stepping back up to six furlongs has really suited him. He handled the conditions brilliantly today,” Davies added.

Looking ahead, Soldier’s Heart is now on course for bigger targets. “He’s in the Mill Reef at Newbury and the Middle Park at Newmarket, and both are great options. If he continues on this upward curve, we’ll be very pleased,” Davies noted.

Reflecting on the Molecomb disappointment at Goodwood, Davies explained, “Goodwood is a sharp five furlongs, and he was run off his feet that day. When horses become unbalanced on the downhill section, it’s hard to recover. But we knew if we brought him back to a track and distance he’s comfortable with, he’d show what he’s really capable of.”

This performance marks Soldier’s Heart as one to watch in the upcoming autumn features, with his connections eyeing even more success as the season progresses.