NEWMARKET, United Kingdom — Galileo Gold, ridden by Frankie Dettori, won the English 2,000 Guineas Saturday with hot favorite Air Force One proving a bitter disappointment.
Aidan O'Brien's champion two-year-old of last season was sent off as favorite. But unlike Frankel, who strode to a majestic victory, Air Force One was soon struggling under Ryan Moore, eventually crossing the line 12th of the 13 runners.
Dettori in contrast had a silky smooth path to his third 2,000 Guineas success.
Jumping smartly out of the stalls he had the Hugo Palmer-trained colt quickly in front, before taking a lead behind Zhui Feng.
By the two furlong marker Dettori kicked him into the lead again, cutting across to the stands rail to beat Massaat by a length and a quarter.
Ribchester was third.
A jubilant Dettori, who won his first 2,000 Guineas in 1996, said: "I had a lot of faith in this horse.
"I knew I'd be in the first three. He's a great horse. My main thought was that he stays very well and I knew if I made my way home, he'd gallop on strong."
Palmer, who trains in Newmarket, added: "I feel so lucky to have him. He's a beautiful, lovely horse, who has just got better and better and better. We have to work with him, not against him, but he's rewarded us."
For Dettori this was a continuation of the renaissance he enjoyed last year after his split with Godolphin and a well publicized ban for cocaine use.
The winner runs in the colors of Sheikh Joaan Al-Thani of Qatar's Al-Shaqab Racing, owners of two-time Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe winner Treve.
While Galileo Gold's camp was celebrating, Air Force One's connections were holding an inquest into their charge's dismal performance.
O'Brien reported: "Ryan said he just didn't feel like the same horse as last year."
