Royal Ascot 2025 delivered a mix of triumph and heartbreak as Ombudsman emerged victorious in the Prince of Wales's Stakes, while the racing community was left devastated by the fatal injury of Harry's Girl in the Queen Mary Stakes.

Ombudsman's Stellar Performance

Ridden by William Buick, Ombudsman, a 7-1 shot, surged ahead in the final furlong to secure a two-length victory over runner-up Anmaat, with See The Fire finishing third. This marked the second win of the day for trainers John and Thady Gosden, who celebrated their fourth victory of the week and 70th overall at Royal Ascot.

"It was a case of waiting for the gap, and this horse has an extraordinary turn of foot," said John Gosden, reflecting on Ombudsman's impressive performance.

The Tragic Loss of Harry's Girl

The day's racing was overshadowed by the tragic death of Harry's Girl, a promising filly trained by Richard Hannon. The two-year-old suffered a fatal leg injury during the Queen Mary Stakes, which was won by the 9-4 favorite True Love, ridden by Ryan Moore for trainer Aidan O'Brien.

"I'm absolutely heartbroken. She was a lovely filly with a fantastic character," said Hannon, who had high hopes for Harry's Girl.

Other Notable Races

• Crimson Advocate, trained by the Gosdens and ridden by James McDonald, won the Duke of Cambridge Stakes.
• Havana Hurricane, trained by Eve Johnson Houghton and ridden by Charlie Bishop, claimed victory in the Windsor Castle Stakes.
• Miss Information, a 11-1 shot, triumphed in the Kensington Palace Stakes, leaving Rainbows Edge, the favorite, in seventh place.

Royal Presence and Absence

King Charles and Queen Camilla were in attendance, hoping for a win with Rainbows Edge, but their hopes were dashed. Meanwhile, The Princess of Wales pulled out of her planned appearance as she continues her gradual return to public life following her cancer diagnosis.

Conclusion

Royal Ascot 2025 will be remembered for both its thrilling victories and its heartbreaking losses. As the racing world moves forward, the memory of Harry's Girl will undoubtedly linger, reminding us all of the risks and rewards inherent in this beloved sport.