Indie Angel Springs Duke Of Cambridge Surprise

ASCOT, BERKSHIRE, ENGLAND – Cheveley Park Stud’s Indie Angel, somehow chilly on the stateside tote at 15/1, sprung the upset in Wednesday’s Duke Of Cambridge Stakes (G2) at Ascot Racecourse for her legendary jockey-trainer combination of Frankie Dettori and John Gosden (who co-conditions with son Thady).

Indie Angel lingered at the rear early but began advancing with 2 furlongs remaining when Dettori tipped her out wide to run along the standside rail. Taking the lead a 1/2-furlong from home, the 4-year-old Dark Angel filly eventually crossed 2 1/2 lengths the best for her first career stakes score that improved her record to 14-5-1-2.

“I’ll be honest with you, that was unexpected,” Dettori said. “She’s got ability, but everything has to fall right for her. She needs cover, a fast pace, and plenty of room. … I didn’t know what to expect, but today was a good day and she just took off.”

The co-5/2 stateside favorites Lady Bowthorpe and Queen Power took second and third, respectively, with Champers Elysees a short head behind them in fourth.

Lavender’s Blue, Fooraat, Valeria Messalina, Agincourt, Double Or Bubble, Onassis, Parent’s Prayer, and Posted completed the order of finish. Bounce The Blues scratched.

Indie Angel returned $33.20 to win and $10.40 to place. Lady Bowthorpe brought back $3.40 to place. Queen Power paid $3 to place.