The third time was the charm for the talented Noble Champion in 2025

After two frustrating starts, Noble Champion lit up the course in the Jersey Stakes (G3), drawing off to win by 3 1/4 lengths in a triumphant finale to Royal Ascot

Noble Champion Captures Jersey Stakes and Believes Again/ ROYAL ASCOT

BERKSHIRE, Inglaterra (Special for Turf Diario).- If there’s one thing Royal Ascot never lacks, it’s space for redemption arcs. Noble Champion, twice disappointing in his seasonal appearances, reignited faith from connections in emphatic style on Saturday, cruising to a commanding 3 1/4-length victory in the G3 Jersey Stakes over seven furlongs for 3-year-olds.

With Kieran Shoemark confidently at the helm, the chestnut colt trained by Ed Walker tracked Spy Chief (Kingman) through the heart of the course, traveling comfortably. When asked for more, Noble Champion responded with authority, quickening away from his rivals to win going away. The pacesetter held on for second, with favored Comanche Brave(Wootton Bassett) finishing nearly three lengths further back in third.

It was a second significant success on the week for the Walker–Shoemark partnership, following their win with Never Let Go in Friday’s Sandringham Stakes. For Walker, it was also a personal vindication:“This horse has driven me mad,” the trainer admitted. “We’ve always believed in his ability, but we couldn’t quite get him right. A setback in January forced us to miss the Greenham and derailed the early part of the season. We tried a mile, then dropped to six furlongs at Newbury… but finally, he put it all together today. He’s one of the most naturally talented horses we’ve had at home—just a huge engine.”

Walker also praised owner Simon Sadler, who recently entered the ownership ranks. “He’s been incredibly generous—he’s pledged to donate all Ascot winnings to pancreatic and liver cancer research. It’s a gesture that speaks volumes, and we’re fortunate to have him involved.”

For Shoemark, the trip and setup proved ideal:“He’s got a serious engine. A strong pace over seven at Ascot was tailor-made for him. He traveled like a dream and quickened beautifully when I asked. He did drift out late, but with the grandstand in front of him and no company, that’s understandable. The bottom line is, he has real quality.”

Robert Havlin, aboard Spy Chief, was full of praise for the runner-up:“He’s still learning—only just won at Yarmouth last out. He’s got ability and will improve again with the experience.”

Trainer Donnacha O’Brien kept it succinct regarding Comanche Brave:“No excuses—he ran well. The front two just got away, and that’s how tough Ascot can be. Finishing third in this field is still a good result.”