Rapidash announced himself as a genuine classic contender with a devastating late surge to claim The Fashion Heights Ltd 10th Anniversary Duchess of York Cup at the Champ de Mars on 25 April 2026, overhauling Viking's Revenge in the closing stages to land the season's opening classic in commanding fashion.

Late Rally Secures Victory

The Rameshwar Gujadhur-trained three-year-old settled last in the field before Donavan Mansour unleashed his charge with 600 metres remaining. Rapidash systematically reeled in his rivals through the final furlongs, ultimately proving too strong for Viking's Revenge, who ran a creditable race despite carrying a rating of just 25.

The winning time of 1m22.85s confirmed the solid tempo, with Rapidash's closing sectionals underlining the quality of his finishing kick. Bacchus held third under Kabelo Matsunyane, while Selukwe filled fourth for the Paul Foo Kune stable.

Danon Platina Double

The victory marked the second win by a Danon Platina offspring on the card, following Blackjack Randall's success earlier for the same Gujadhur operation. An objection lodged by runner-up jockey Ivaldo Santana was dismissed by the stewards.