Royal Champion clinches 2025 Bahrain International Trophy

TDT | Manama

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Royal Champion powered to victory in the 2025 Bahrain International Trophy (Group 2) yesterday at the Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club in Sakhir, sweeping past rivals in the closing stages to secure the biggest share of the race’s US$1 million purse.

The Karl Burke-trained runner, partnered by James Doyle, lived up to his 15-8 favouritism with a well-timed surge over the 2,000-metre trip.

The five-year-old travelled smoothly throughout the mileand-a-quarter feature, sitting handy before unleashing a decisive final burst — a performance that has prompted his trainer to consider stepping him up in distance next season.

“James gave him a great ride,” Burke said. “We wanted him switched off and in a rhythm. I told James he would take a hundred metres to really hit top gear. A furlong and a half out I thought we might be beaten, but he had it under control. He stays well and he’s tough.”

Galen, from Joseph O’Brien’s yard and ridden by Dylan Browne McMonagle, made the running and fought on gamely but had to settle for second, while Charlie Appleby’s Military Order, under William Buick, kept on for third.

Pride Of Arras finished fourth, with Lion’s Pride completing the top five. Calif, Bright Picture and Persica followed home.

Royal Champion earned US$600,000 for the win, with US$200,000 awarded to Galen and US$100,000 to Military Order. The Bahrain International Trophy continues to strengthen its reputation as a leading international contest, drawing elite runners from major European stables.