HOPEFULLY the sceptics are now finally silenced. With an unbeaten run of nine victories under his belt, each gained at a mile, Baaeed stepped into the ‘unknown’ this week, tackled 10 furlongs for the first time, and established himself as a true champion.

A resounding victory in the Group 1 Juddmonte International was his sixth at that level, matching the achievement of his sire, Sea The Stars (Cape Cross). He now lies one behind Stradivarius, winner of the Ascot Gold Cup three times and the Goodwood Cup on four occasions. The 17 sons and daughters of Sea The Stars who have won at the highest level have now amassed 33 wins in these races.