Royal Gladiator notched up his second career win in style with a strong front-running performance in the BM55 Handicap over 1300m on the Sunshine Coast. The four-year-old gelding, trained by Darryl Hansen, showed that he has returned from his recent spell a far more mature and settled horse — a trait that was foreshadowed by his impressive trial last month. Hansen praised the son of Jungle Cat for his development both mentally and physically, noting that the gelding has taken significant steps forward in his racing manners and consistency this preparation.
Jumping cleanly from the gates, Royal Gladiator was quickly into stride and took up the running, where he was rated perfectly in front by jockey Cody Collis. The pair dictated the tempo throughout, keeping their rivals off the bit before Collis asked for an effort approaching the 300m mark. Responding gamely, Royal Gladiator kicked clear to establish a decisive margin and maintained his advantage to the line, scoring comfortably by more than a length. The performance suggested that the gelding has plenty more to offer this campaign and is on track to continue his rise through the grades.