Trainer Joe Pride’s decision to add blinkers proved a masterstroke as Ceolwulf stormed back to form, claiming consecutive victories in the $5 million King Charles III Stakes at Randwick.

After a patchy year since his Epsom Handicap–King Charles III Stakes double, the five-year-old rediscovered his spark with the gear change.

“I have said for a long time I’ve thought he was the best horse I ever trained,” Pride said.
“It’s been a long twelve months waiting for him to win again in the manner in which he won last year.”

Ridden by regular jockey Chad Schofield, Ceolwulf ($10) produced a sharp turn of foot to defeat Mr Brightside ($4.20 fav) by 1¾ lengths, with Pier ($51) close behind.

“Just a masterstroke by Joe,” Schofield said.
“The blinkers brought out the best of him and, God, he was good.”

Pride confirmed Ceolwulf will now head south for a major race on Champions Day at Flemington.