Bjorn Baker has secured a significant achievement for the revamped Godolphin structure, with Pericles delivering the global racing giant its first feature win since adopting a public training model.
Making his stable debut, Pericles ($9.50) stormed between runners in the straight to claim the Group 2 Tramway Stakes (1400m) by 1-1/4 lengths, defeating the evergreen Private Eye ($2.10 fav) and Withyourblessing ($19).
Previously conditioned under Godolphin’s private system, the horses are now spread among a number of trainers, and Baker was delighted to mark the new era with a prestigious win. “Huge to win for Godolphin,” Baker said. “I’m a racing purist and history buff, so to get a result like this for such a superpower is one of the highs of my career. He’s a very good horse—anyone could train him.”
Pericles was primed to fire fresh, replicating his Tramway success of two years earlier as Baker targets the Epsom Handicap (1600m). Jockey Josh Parr executed the plan to perfection, slotting in behind the pace before weaving through gaps. “I just needed the split at the right time,” Parr said. “He’s such a big horse but he manoeuvred beautifully and showed an impressive turn of foot.”
On the same program, Chris Waller celebrated a return to form for Lindermann in the Group 2 Chelmsford Stakes (1600m). The gelding had disappointed first-up in the Winx Stakes (1400m) on heavy ground, but Waller trusted his work at home and was rewarded. “He’s a stable favourite,” Waller said. “Good track today and he’ll hold that form now.”
Lindermann ($11) prevailed by a head over Sir Delius ($5.50), with Vauban ($15) also turning in a strong effort for third. Waller suggested races like the 7 Stakes, Craven Plate or Hill Stakes could be next on the agenda.