Almaqam prevailed convincingly in the Chasemore Farm Stud Staff Heron Stakes at Sandown by showing resilience when it counted.
After causing some trouble in the one-mile Listed event's preliminary proceedings, Ed Walker's colt produced a masterful display on the track, winning by three and three-quarter lengths at 7-1.
In the beginning, William Buick was content to follow alongside the leader Son, but he took charge when the latter lost position by swinging excessively wide at the bend.
After a full length, all was up for grabs as Ice Max and Frankel's half-brother Kikkuli attempted to mount a challenge, but Almaqam had plenty more left in the tank and eventually pulled away in the last moments.
Some top performers have won this race in the past, such as Kris, Kalanisi, Proclamation, and Without Parole. Almaqam was shortened to as little as 16-1 with Coral for the St. James's Palace Stakes, though his trainer may choose to increase the distance at the Royal meeting.
Walker said: “I’m very happy, I was really impressed with how he hit the line so strongly in that ground. We were worried about the ground, I think everyone was worried about the ground, but he did it really well. I think 10 furlongs won’t be an issue, so we’ll see. That was a huge step forward, that was a strong race. I know plenty of horses may not have acted on the ground, sometimes those races can be a question of who acts best on the ground and you can be made to look better than you are, but he’s done nothing wrong in his career. He’s very straightforward, he’s a beautiful horse. I’m very grateful to His Highness Sheikh Ahmed (Al Maktoum) for sending him to me. It’ll be the St James’s Palace or the Hampton Court – I’m not sure yet.”
Trainer Harry Charlton said about Kikkuli: “I’m very pleased with the run on that ground. He wouldn’t have enjoyed the going and I think a mile on better ground will suit him. There’s loads more to come.”