Doyen

Doyen, by Sadler`s Wells out of Moon Cactus (by Kris), moved into superstar category in 2004.

Owned by Godolphin, he finished fourth in the Prix de l`Arc de Triomphe in 2003, beaten seven lengths by Dalakhani.

It was as a four year old in 2004 that Doyen showed his true ability.

Doyen won the Hardwicke Stakes at Royal Ascot in record time and then went on to trounce his rivals with a imperious display in the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes in July 2004. In the King George he started the 11-10 favourite, powered to the lead two furlongs out and comfortably finished three lengths ahead of American challenger Hard Buck with Godolphin`s other runner, Sulamani, in third.

Doyen was the fourth winner of the King George for jockey Frankie Dettori and the fifth for trainer Saeed bin Suroor, who equalled Dick Hern`s record. After the race Frankie Dettori said “This was the easiest King George winner I have ridden. Daylami won this race by five lengths but he was off the bridle from three out. I could have won by much further today if I’d wanted. I really feel we have a great horse here”.

Doyen`s next race was the Irish Champion Stakes where he was sent off the 4-5 favourite under Frankie Dettori but unexpectedly failed to perform and finished a disappointing seventh of the eight runners.