IT'S TRIPLE TOPS FOR THE KING

Triple Time proves an instant hit at top level with Queen Anne win

Triple Time made a sensational debut at G1 level by causing a 33/1 shock in the Queen Anne Stakes for Kevin Ryan and Neil Callan.

Making his first start of the campaign after being forced to miss the Lockinge Stakes, Triple Time was always to the fore in a steadily-run contest.

The Frankel colt led with two furlongs remaining and was soon challenged by Inspiral under Frankie Dettori. Inspiral looked the more likely winner entering the final furlong but her effort flattened out close home, with Triple Time running on gamely to prevail by a neck.

Ryan said: "Triple Time was in great shape coming into the race. We've always had great faith in the horse; Sheikh Mohammed Obaid has been very patient. Unfortunately, he got a bit of stomach cramp just before the Lockinge and we had to take him out, and he's only had one ordinary run; that was in France in October on deep ground. Now hopefully we will have a full season with him, and he's got his Group One, which is great.

"I am delighted for all my team, and my family. Umar, who looks after him, has done a magnificent job, and Sheikh Mohammed Obaid has been a big, big supporter of ours. He's so patient, and I'm delighted to have a big one for him, especially here.

"Triple Time is up there with the best I've had - he's very good. He's not a keen horse but he's got a massive stride, and he's not the type of horse you can break that stride. He's very tough. We knew we had him as good as we could get him without a run and it's paid off.

Reflecting on his late withdrawal at Newbury, Ryan said: "He was alright within half an hour at Newbury - the vets didn't take any chances and took him to the hospital. In case it was proper colic the vet had to give him a sedative straightaway, which was absolutely the right thing to do. Horses give you grey hairs sometimes!