Goliath defeats Dubai Honour in Germany

Goliath returned to something like his best form in the Grosser Preis von Baden to provide part-owner John Stewart with the perfect wedding present.

Returned to positive tactics – as he was when claiming the La Coupe at ParisLongchamp earlier in the summer – Francis-Henri Graffard’s five-year-old was making a welcome return to the Group One winner’s enclosure having last won at the highest level in Ascot’s King George VI And Queen Elizabeth Stakes last year.

With usual pilot Christophe Soumillon required in France, Clement Lecoeuvre got the chance to deputise aboard Goliath and his enterprising ride paid dividend when able to pinch the stands-side rail entering the home straight before galloping clear of William Haggas’ Dubai Honour.

Goliath’s victory represented a triumphant homecoming for the German-bred son of Adlerflug who was carrying the colours of his part-owner Philip Baron Von Ullmann – who retained a stake in the gelding when Resolute Racing’s John Stewart got involved last year.

Stewart said: “We are very pleased with the win and it’s great to see him back in top form. We are especially happy for our partner Baron Philip Von Ullman to get this win in Germany’s most prestigious race.

“We will talk with Francis and consider the Breeders’ Cup or Japan Cup as potential options next.

“Chelsey and I would have been there but we had our wedding yesterday in Kentucky. This is the best wedding gift!”