Godolphin’s Kentucky-bred Ruling Court kicked off the UK Classic season, proving a determined winner of the 2000 Guineas Stakes (G1) at Newmarket on Saturday, May 3.
Under jockey William Buick, Ruling Court closed resolutely in the late stages of the one-mile fixture on turf to win narrowly over a rallying Field of Gold (IRE) and stablemate Shadow of Light (GB). The son of Triple Crown winner Justify is now a winner in 3-of-4 lifetime starts for trainer Charlie Appleby. Bred in Kentucky by Nursery Place, Manfuso and Wilhite, Ruling Court has amassed earnings of $555,447. He was a $150,000 Keeneland September Sale graduate in 2023.
“I love how Ruling Court did it, he’s such an uncomplicated horse,” Buick said after the race. “We treated him like it, not looking for cover and letting him do his thing. It didn’t feel like a quick gallop, and he lengthened right to the line. He’ll get further and he’s got a huge engine.
“This feels great,” Buick added. “He was so smooth throughout. He’s a special horse and his stamina shone through.”