Palladium Heads to Gosden for Ascot Flat Return

One-time Triumph Hurdle contender Palladium has transferred his training to the esteemed John and Thady Gosden at Newmarket, setting his sights on a return to the Flat and, specifically, the prestigious Group 2 Hardwicke Stakes at Royal Ascot. The move follows a setback that saw him sidelined just days before the Cheltenham Festival.

Originally a leading prospect over hurdles, Palladium’s career shift to flat racing and subsequent transfer have sparked considerable interest within the racing community. Purchased by Lady Bamford for €1.4 million last October, the Irish-trained horse quickly showcased potential, culminating in a dominant victory at Huntingdon in January where he posted odds of 8-15.

A Change of Trainers, A New Direction

The decision to move to the Gosdens, renowned for their exceptional success with high-class flat horses, is a strategic one. John and Thady Gosden boast a remarkable record, including recent triumphs with Soul Sister in the 2023 Oaks and the enduring legacy of Star Of Seville’s victory in the 2015 Prix de Diane. This pedigree undoubtedly adds to Palladium’s appeal and elevates expectations for his future performance.

“Palladium has recently moved to John and Thady Gosden where he has settled in well by all accounts,” stated Henry Lascelles, racing manager to Lady Bamford, during a recent visit to the Tattersalls Craven Breeze Up Sales. “The plan is to prepare him for Royal Ascot with the Group 2 Hardwicke Stakes as an obvious target, but whether he’ll have a run beforehand we’ll have to see.”

Previous Form & Potential

Before his setback at Seven Barrows, Palladium had demonstrated considerable promise on the Flat, finishing last of six in the Group 1 Preis von Europa in Cologne in September. Despite this previous performance, his move to Newmarket and the Gosden team signal a renewed belief in his capabilities and a focused effort to unlock his full potential.

“This is dreadful news’ – Nicky Henderson hit with huge blow as Triumph Hurdle hope Palladium to miss Cheltenham

The Hardwicke Stakes, a Group 2 race held at Royal Ascot, represents a key target for Palladium’s return to the Flat. It is a competitive race, attracting top-class fillies and mares, offering a significant test of his newfound partnership with the Gosdens and a crucial opportunity to measure his progress.

FAQ

• When is the Hardwicke Stakes?
• The Hardwicke Stakes is traditionally held on the Friday of Royal Ascot week.
• What is Palladium’s current status?
• Palladium is currently in Newmarket, under the care of John and Thady Gosden.

Pro Tips

• Keep an eye on Palladium’s training progress in the weeks leading up to Royal Ascot.
• Monitor the entries for the Hardwicke Stakes to get a sense of the competition.

With the expertise of the Gosdens and a clear target in mind, Palladium is shaping up to be a compelling contender for a prominent position on the Flat this season. His move reflects a calculated strategy with the potential to elevate his career to new heights, offering racing enthusiasts a captivating storyline to follow.

Did you know?
The Gosdens have been instrumental in shaping the careers of numerous high-profile racehorses, solidifying their reputation as one of Britain’s leading training partnerships.

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