And Anna Swan looks a star in the making for soon-to-retire Stoute.
Witness Stand delivered a commanding performance to win the Dubai Duty-Free Cup at Newbury, leaving his rivals trailing in the seven-furlong Listed contest. With Lake Forest a notable absentee, all eyes were on the 2-1 favourite Nostrum, who had undergone wind surgery since finishing second in Newmarket's Criterion Stakes. However, the one-time Classic hope faded rapidly when the pressure mounted, finishing a disappointing last.
For Witness Stand, this was an impressive return to form. The Tom Clover-trained gelding, who had previously secured a handicap victory at Goodwood, surged clear from the halfway point, winning by three lengths ahead of English Oak. The 7-1 shot now seems poised for bigger opportunities at Group level.
"He's a lovely horse who keeps improving," Clover said. "We'll likely aim for the Challenge Stakes at Newmarket as long as he's well. He deserves a crack at Group level now."
Anna Swan Maintains Unbeaten Record in EBF Fillies' Stakes
Anna Swan enhanced her burgeoning reputation with a smooth win in the Dubai Duty-Free Full of Surprises British EBF Fillies' Conditions Stakes. The Sir Michael Stoute-trained filly, owned by Cheveley Park, followed up on her Yarmouth debut with a two-length victory, leading from start to finish under William Buick.
Buick, speaking after the race, praised the 2-11 favourite, stating: "She's useful and there's plenty of improvement in her. She quickened up nicely and will likely be better on firmer ground."
Anna Swan holds entries for prestigious races such as the Fillies' Mile and the Oh So Sharp Stakes, as her connections weigh plans.
Regal Ulixes Shines in Haynes, Hanson & Clark Novice Stakes
Andrew Balding's Regal Ulixes took top honours in the esteemed Haynes, Hanson & Clark Novice Stakes, displaying grit to secure a one-and-three-quarter-length victory over King Of Cities. The race, which has seen legendary winners like Shergar and Nayef, adds Regal Ulixes to its illustrious list of victors.
"He's a horse with a future," said Balding. "He shaped well on his first start at Goodwood, and despite today’s muddling race, he showed his quality. We’ll likely wait until next year to continue his campaign."
Clive Cox Completes Treble with Aysgarth and Maiden Stakes Winners
Clive Cox had a day to remember, completing a treble at Newbury. He won both divisions of the Nick Robinson Memorial EBF Maiden Stakes with debutants Shameful (3-1) and Fast Track Harry (9-1). Cox then capped the day with a thrilling victory by Aysgarth (22-1) in the Dubai Duty-Free Nursery, edging out Gilet by a nose.
Reflecting on the treble, Cox said, "It’s been a special day for the team. All three horses performed exceptionally, especially Shameful, who showed great composure to lead from start to finish."
Looking Ahead
With several horses showcasing their potential at Newbury, attention now turns to future targets, including Group races and Classic trials. Witness Stand and Anna Swan in particular look set to tackle higher-grade contests, while Regal Ulixes will aim to build on his promising start in 2024.
