Rebel's Romance secures victory at the Hardwicke Stakes, highlighting his global superstar status and Appleby's relief after a challenging week.
Rebel's Romance Triumphs, Hardwicke Honours, and a Love Story on the Turf
Rebel's Romance clinches the Hardwicke Stakes, showcasing global dominance. Appleby expresses relief, while O'Brien and Joorabchian share optimism despite the loss.
Rebel's Romance: A Worldwide Superstar
At Royal Ascot, Rebel's Romance, ridden by William Buick, delivered a stellar performance to win The Hardwicke Stakes. This seven-year-old, already a champion in prestigious races worldwide, including the Breeders’ Cup Turf and Group One victories in Germany, Dubai, and Hong Kong, added another jewel to his crown. Trainer Charlie Appleby couldn't contain his admiration, calling Rebel's Romance a "worldwide superstar."
"I’ve got a picture of this fellow on my bedside table. He means that much to us all,” Appleby gushed, emphasizing the horse's unique charm: “He’s the only horse I know that you can take to Hong Kong and he’ll get you into any bar and restaurant!"
Hardwicke Honours: Appleby's Relief
Appleby's victory with Rebel's Romance was particularly sweet, as he hadn't secured a Royal Ascot win since 2022. This week had been fraught with near-misses and disappointments with other highly-regarded horses. He expressed immense relief, stating, "If there was one horse that you were having to roll your last dice on in this game, it was going to be him."
Romance Novel: A Horse with Heart
The key to Rebel's Romance's success seems to lie in his unwavering enthusiasm and heart. Appleby noted that despite the horse's age, his passion for racing remains undiminished. "Once something comes to Rebel’s Romance, he finds. You very rarely get a horse that when it gets into the red, he still goes."
The Competition: Al Riffa and Ghostwriter
While Rebel's Romance took the spotlight, the competition was fierce. Joseph O’Brien, trainer of Al Riffa, acknowledged the strength of the winner but praised his horse's performance. Ghostwriter, recently sold for £2 million, also showed promise, with owner Kia Joorabchian hinting at future races in America or Australia.
Final Thoughts: A True Champion
Rebel's Romance isn't just a racehorse; he's a symbol of heart, enthusiasm, and global appeal. Whether he's winning big races or charming his way into Hong Kong bars, this horse has captured the hearts of many. Here's to more thrilling races and unforgettable moments with this equine superstar. Who knows, maybe he will be the subject of a romance novel one day!
