Kalpana wins King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot in thrilling rematch

Kalpana delivered a commanding performance in the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot, defeating Calandagan by one and a half lengths to claim one of British racing's most prestigious prizes. The victory marked trainer Andrew Balding's first success in the historic midsummer showpiece, exactly 55 years after his father Ian saddled the legendary Mill Reef to win the same race in 1971.

Dominant Display Reverses Previous Defeat

The five-year-old mare, ridden by Colin Keane, settled the score with Calandagan, who had defeated her by a single length in the same race twelve months earlier. Racing in the Juddmonte colours previously carried to victory by the three-time King George winner Enable, Kalpana proved her superiority in a field that included recent Derby winners, last year's champion, and multiple Group One victors.

Keane struck for home inside the final quarter-mile after a ferocious pace set by pacemaker Action, sweeping into the lead with over a furlong remaining. Calandagan, supported heavily by punters at 6-5 favourite odds, could not recover from the assault, finishing with Benvenuto Cellini third and last year's dual Derby winner Lambourn fourth.

Physical Conditioning Made the Difference

Balding attributed Kalpana's improved performance to significant improvements in her physical preparation. The trainer revealed she had lost approximately 10 kilograms compared to the previous year, allowing her to train leaner and perform more effectively. "I've felt she has been better this year and trained leaner and lighter," Balding stated, noting that her enhanced fitness proved decisive in the closing stages.

For Keane, the victory represented his most significant success since being appointed as Juddmonte's retained jockey in the middle of the previous year. The jockey praised the mare's exceptional abilities, describing her as "very special" and noting her capacity to quicken almost instantly when required.

Future Targets Remain Open

Balding has not yet committed to future plans but indicated multiple possibilities. The Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe at Longchamp in October remains under consideration, though Kalpana finished seventh last year from an unfavourable draw. The trainer also mentioned the Yorkshire Oaks in August as a potential target, stating that "anything is possible" given the mare's current form and responsiveness to racing.