Courage Mon Ami Primed for Royal Ascot Comeback

Golden Cup champion is to lead the Wathnan team this season. 

Courage Mon Ami, the current Ascot Gold Cup titleholder, is gearing up to spearhead the ambitious Wathnan Racing team as they set their sights on further success in the upcoming season.

Courage Mon Ami and his stablemate Gregory kicked off their ownership journey with a bang under the Qatari-based Wathnan Racing banner, securing victories in significant races. A return to the prestigious Royal Ascot meeting is at the forefront of plans for both stayers, trained by the esteemed John and Thady Gosden.

The dynamic duo from Clarehaven are anticipated to follow separate paths leading up to Royal Ascot, with Courage Mon Ami likely to make a single appearance early in the season to ensure peak performance at the grand event.

Richard Brown, the UK racing advisor for Wathnan, shared insights into Courage Mon Ami's preparation, stating,

"Courage Mon Ami had a restful winter break and is now back in training. The primary goal is the Gold Cup, with a tentative plan for him to compete once before Ascot as part of his preparation to defend his title."

Regarding race options, Brown highlighted the limited choices available and the strategic decision to potentially field both Courage Mon Ami and Gregory separately, hoping for dual representation at the event.

Wathnan Racing made a notable entrance into British ownership before the 2023 Royal Ascot, experiencing early triumphs at prestigious meetings. Their upcoming season promises excitement as they expand their roster of equine talent and gear up for a thrilling turf season.

The recruitment of top jockey James Doyle further solidifies their team, with his expertise expected to play a pivotal role. The Wathnan team, having been actively involved in purchasing new stock throughout 2023, is now focused on planning for the upcoming season.

Excitement looms not only for the promising yearlings but also for the seasoned acquisitions from the previous year, with notable names such as Per Contra, Native American, Ballymount Boy, and Mister Sketch preparing for their three-year-old campaigns.

In addition, the veteran members of the Wathnan squad, including Rogue Lightning and Remarquee, hold high expectations in their respective divisions. Plans for the season are yet to be finalised, with a cautious approach taken towards setting targets until the horses signal their readiness.

Remarquee, who clinched silver at the Coronation Stakes and Falmouth Stakes under Ralph Beckett's guidance last season, is back under his care, with promising reports indicating a positive outlook for the upcoming campaign.

With preparations in full swing and optimism in the air, the Wathnan Racing team is poised for an eventful and potentially successful season ahead.