Goodwood will host another dramatic chapter in the burgeoning rivalry between Trawlerman and Scandinavia in the Al Shaqab Goodwood Cup, following their captivating duel in the Ascot Gold Cup last month. The encounter at Ascot was widely lauded, with some comparing its intensity to the historic 1975 King George clash between Grundy and Bustino.
Scandinavia, an upstart seeking his seventh consecutive victory, aims to extend his winning streak, while the eight-year-old Trawlerman, a seasoned competitor, enters the race seeking retribution for his close loss at Ascot. Trawlerman is considered an anomaly in racing due to his ability to perform at a high level at an age when most horses have retired. He will again wear ski goggles to protect his light-sensitive eyes.
John and Thady Gosden, trainers of Trawlerman, reported that the horse retains his enthusiasm and has shown improvement since the Ascot race. The age difference between the two horses, with Scandinavia being significantly younger, adds another layer to the narrative. Trawlerman's front-running style contrasts with Scandinavia's more patient approach, creating an engaging tactical battle.
The field for the Goodwood Cup also includes other notable contenders such as Amiloc, Lazy Griff, and Rahiebb, all capable of challenging the main protagonists. Amiloc, undefeated on the Goodwood course, is making its debut at two miles after a commendable performance in the Group 2 Hardwicke Stakes at Royal Ascot. Lazy Griff, representing a stable with a rich history at Goodwood, including multiple wins from Double Trigger, Royal Rebel, and Darasim, will race in headgear for the first time and is expected to benefit from the course's watering.
The Al Shaqab Goodwood Cup is expected to set a positive tone for the meeting, which is forecast to have favorable weather. The excitement continues the following day with the Visit Qatar Sussex Stakes, featuring a third seasonal clash between Betfred 2000 Guineas winner Bow Echo and Gstaad. While Bow Echo leads their previous encounters, the margin of victory has narrowed, and the presence of the talented four-year-old Opera Ballo ensures the race is far from a foregone conclusion.