Unbeaten Good Cheer takes the applause in G2 Golden Rod Stakes

Good Cheer maintained her perfect record with another authoritative display in the G2 Golden Rod Stakes at Churchill Downs, USA, on Saturday, 30 November.   

A debut winner at Indiana Grand, the Medaglia d’Oro homebred was chasing a third straight win under the Twin Spires following dominant victories in an allowance race and the Rags To Riches Stakes.   

Good Cheer found herself last of the seven runners after some minor scrimmaging leaving the stalls before moving up to a close fifth after the first-quarter mile. 


Luis Saez switched Good Cheer out with half a mile left and the Brad Cox-trained juvenile made a significant move around the field turning for home to press My Lil Punky and Eclatant for the lead at the top of the lane.   

Good Cheer took control of the race from Eclatant a furlong and a half out and soon bounded clear, easily seeing off a rallying Quietside to prevail by two and a half lengths. Her victory moves her to the top of the Kentucky Oaks leaderboard with 20 points. 

Brad Cox said: “Good Cheer’s record really speaks for itself and the style in which she’s won her races has been very impressive. She is another testament to Godolphin’s program. She’s handled everything we’ve done with her so far extremely well and I think we haven’t seen her best yet.” 

Luis Saez said: “Good Cheer is very special. She’s a magnificent filly and one of the best that I have ridden. It’s a pleasure for me to ride for Godolphin – I won the Dubai World Cup on Mystic Guide in these colours, which makes them very special. I love to wear them.”