Godolphin’s Ribchester strolled to Al Shaqab Lockinge Stakes (Group 1) victory at Newbury on Saturday, while the silks of Al Shaqab shone later in the day with Denaar winning the Olympic Glory Conditions Stakes (Class 2).
The racing day has been sponsored by Al Shaqab for the third straight year and Qatar Olympic Committee president HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani presented the trophies to the winners of the Group 1 race, the first championship event for milers in Europe. 
Ribchester, who ran third in his seasonal comeback in the Dubai Turf, was forced to set the pace after his leader Toscanini missed the break.
He ran down the early challenge of Al Shaqab Racing’s Galileo Gold and found something extra when asked by jockey William Buick in the last couple of furlongs.
“It’s pure ability. I’ve been quoted before – this horse can go 0-35 in four strides. He’s got a lot of speed, a Ferrari engine. He’s won and everything’s gone great,” winning trainer Richard Fahey said.
Ribchester will head to the Gr1 Queen Anne Stakes, the next leg for milers in QIPCO British Champions Series, on June 20 at Royal Ascot.
Richard Hannon-trained two-year-old, Denaar, followed in the footsteps of Mehmas, who had won the race last year for Al Shaqab Racing.
Al Shaqab Racing executive director Khalifa bin Mohamed al-Attiyah lauded the running of the racing event, especially as it was staged in the presence of Sheikh Joaan.
“For the third year in a row, this race day has been sponsored by Al Shaqab, and Al Shaqab’s participation has been very positive with Denaar winning the Olympic Glory Conditions Stakes, following the example of Mehmas, who won the same event last year. Denaar will be seen in other racing events, including Royal Ascot and Qatar Goodwood Festival,” al-Attiyah said.
“Galileo Gold could be excused as his performance was influenced by the ground. We are happy with our participation at Newbury. We will participate in several racing events in the near future and we look forward to more achievements in line with Al Shaqab’s capabilities.”