Ruler’s Pride stakes Royal Ascot claim
By Racing TV
Last Updated: Wed 20 May 2026
Ruler’s Pride could be Royal Ascot-bound after readily winning on debut at Ayr.
The son of Mehmas faced only two rivals at the Scottish venue on Monday but came easily clear in the closing stages of the Absolut Tabasco Maiden Stakes under Clifford Lee.
Trainer Karl Burke unleashed Wild Blossom – who is now the Queen Mary favourite – at Carlisle on Monday, and though the winning distance was less for Ruler’s Pride, Lee was impressed with the performance from the fellow Wathnan Racing-owned colt.
Speaking to Racing TV, he said: “He was still very green, but he's done it nicely and gave me a nice feel.
“It didn't feel like we were going quickly so I took it up, went an even gallop, and I liked the way he picked up. He didn’t roll around too much which was great; very straightforward.
“He was definitely fit, he looked a lovely type in the paddock, and I presume James [Doyle, retained rider for owners Wathnan Racing] will be looking forward to Ascot now.
“I probably would keep him to five [furlongs] at Ascot, it would be a stiff five, but he has lots of speed.
He will have learnt a lot from today, both mentally and physically.”
Bookmakers reacted accordingly, with Sky Bet and Paddy Power cutting Ruler’s Pride to 10/1 for the Norfolk Stakes.
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