Clive Cox trained Lethal Force to win at the highest level and on Friday saddled his son Golden Horse to win the Gr1 Commonwealth Cup (6f) at Royal Ascot.
Settled in the front rank by Adam Kirby, Golden Horde was always travelling strongly and went clear two furlongs out, going on to defeat American visitor Kimari by 1-1/2 lengths with Ventura Rebel 2-1/2 lengths away in third.
Cox said Golden Horde has developed into a stronger individual from two to three.
“Golden Horde was G1 placed twice last year and was great in (winning) the Richmond Stakes,” Cox said.
“We always believed this year he would be able to take a step up physically. He was a big horse last year, but he has really grown into that frame this year.
“I am very proud of him. We have got a great team at home and to win a G1 first time out with any horse is difficult, but given the way things are this year, it’s the same for a lot of people, but I am really proud. He is a horse to go forward with – I really hope and pray he has got a longer journey to go ahead of him.”
Cox said Golden Horde is a pleasure to train and he was expecting further improvement.
“Golden Horde is just top-class. He has got a lovely temperament, is great to deal with and that ability to go on any type of ground is very special as well,” Cox said.
“He is out of a Pivotal mare (Entreat) by Lethal Force who we enjoyed such a wonderful day with when winning the Diamond Jubilee in 2013 – it is very special.
“We always trained him last year with the knowledge that with the right sort of behaviour he would be a better horse this year as well. It is just fantastic when it goes right and when dreams are realised.
“The great thing about Lethal Force was he kept progressing with age. He was a better four-year-old than he was three-year-old. There is always that hope when you know they’ve got that ability and the size and stature to carry it out.”