Audience, the Lockinge hero, returned to winning ways with an impressive performance in the HKJC World Pool Lennox Stakes at Goodwood.
Trained by John and Thady Gosden, the five-year-old surprised many with his victory in the first Group One of the season at Newbury, where he outpaced his stablemate Inspiral. After a fifth-place finish in the Queen Anne at Royal Ascot, Audience was stepped down in grade and distance for this seven-furlong Group Two, and he delivered in style under Robert Havlin.
In a race where only two horses were truly competitive, the 4-1 shot Audience tracked the pacesetting Art Power and made his move in the final furlong. He quickly surged four lengths clear, sealing the win decisively.
Art Power held on for second, while 7-2 favourite Kinross, aiming for his third win in the race, finished third after making late progress.
Havlin praised the horse's recent win, proving it wasn't a fluke: “He’s always had a lot of ability... We tried him without the hood, and it sharpened him up.” He highlighted the horse's speed, noting that he was surprised by how quick he was at the three-furlong mark.
Looking ahead, Audience is expected to race in the City of York Stakes at seven furlongs next month, with Paddy Power reducing his odds from 12-1 to 7-2. Chris Richardson from Cheveley Park commented that the mile at Ascot was too challenging and confirmed plans for York, without a penalty. John Gosden agreed on the need to avoid the mile distance, pointing to the Prix de la Foret and Breeders’ Cup Mile as potential future targets.
Tim Easterby praised Art Power's temperament and performance, aiming for the Qipco British Champions Sprint at Ascot in October while planning to assess options after bringing him home.