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Gosden: Mishriff has run a huge race but Baaeed is a true champion

Baaeed and Jim Crowley win the Juddmone InternationalYork 17.8.22 Pic: Edward Whitaker
Baaeed and Jim Crowley are out on their own in the Juddmonte International at YorkCredit: Edward Whitaker

Mishriff's joint-trainer Thady Gosden was left in awe of Baaeed and led the tributes from losing connections in the Juddmonte International, hailing the unbeaten superstar as a "true champion".

Mishriff, who was a dominant winner of the race on the Knavesmire last year, had no answer as the William Haggas-trained Baaeed stretched his perfect record to ten with a six-and-a-half-length blitz under Jim Crowley.

"Mishriff has run a huge race in defeat but Baaeed is a true champion," Gosden said.

"All you can do is admire him. He's a brilliant horse. He's been wonderfully handled by William and the Shadwell team. It's wonderful for Sheikha Hissa and the whole team there."

On the next target for Mishriff, Gosden said: "He's been everywhere and won Group 1s – not just any Group 1s but the biggest ones in four countries. We'll discuss with the owner, but he's always a horse who runs a great race, is tough and consistent. There's other big races left for him for the rest of the year."

Baaeed and Jim Crowley (L) win the Juddmone InternationalYork 17.8.22 Pic: Edward Whitaker
Shadwell star Baaeed (left) powers to Juddmonte International victory at YorkCredit: Edward Whitaker

Sir Busker ran another fine race in defeat to take third as the 100-1 rank outsider and, while trainer William Knight is eyeing the Cox Plate or Bahrain International Trophy for the six-year-old, he was proud of the role he played in Baaeed's crowning moment.

"When you really look at it, that was the best possible position we could finish. I was so pleased for the horse. We had two very good horses in front of us, but it was lovely to be part of such a great race and play our part with such an amazing horse like Baaeed," he said.

"We've punched above our weight for quite a while. To think we'd be here against Baaeed and finishing third, I'd have never believed anyone."

Aidan O'Brien, who saddled High Definition to finish last of the six, also hailed the raw ability of Baaeed.

He said: "He got the trip well and he looks a very, very good horse. It was great to be there to see him."


Read more on Baaeed:

'He's as good as the greats' - Baaeed cements legendary status in stunning style

Baaeed skin condition leads to William Haggas being fined by BHA

'Wow!' – Baaeed hailed after 'murdering' Juddmonte International field

Where should Baaeed run next: Champion Stakes or Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe?

John Gosden: Mishriff has run a huge race but Baaeed is a true champion


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Matt RennieReporter

Published on 17 August 2022inReports

Last updated 19:05, 17 August 2022

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