Rashabar, ridden by teenager Billy Loughnane, narrowly held off a late challenge from Wathnan Racing duo Electrolyte and Columnist to win the Coventry Stakes in a thrilling finish. This victory brought back the famous silks associated with the late Robert Sangster to the winner’s enclosure at Royal Ascot.
Trained by Brian Meehan, Rashabar had shown promise in his previous races at Newbury and Chester but had yet to secure a win. The Holy Roman Emperor colt surprised as an 80-1 outsider, crossing the finish line by just a nose.
Leading a group of eight on the far rail, Rashabar surged ahead inside the final furlong and extended his lead to over a length. Despite strong finishes from Electrolyte and Columnist, Rashabar managed to hold on for the win, with Loughnane celebrating his first career victory at the Royal meeting in a thrilling photo finish.