Gewan, a 25-1 outsider, produced a stunning performance to win the Group One Dewhurst Stakes at Newmarket, denying Aidan O'Brien a record ninth victory in the race. Ridden by James Doyle, the colt settled close to the early pace before taking the lead a furlong and a half out and holding off the favourite Gstaad by three-quarters of a length.
The victory was a redemption for Gewan, who had finished a lacklustre fourth as the 6-5 favourite in the Champagne Stakes at Doncaster last month. Trainer Andrew Balding attributed the earlier defeat to soft ground and an off-day, noting that the horse's work at home suggested he would feature prominently.
Gewan runs in the colours of Chinese billionaire Zhang Yuesheng, who bought into the colt after his impressive win in the Acomb Stakes at York. Balding praised the owner's patience, which allowed the team to stick with their plan. The winner is now top-priced at 12-1 for next year's 2,000 Guineas.
Gstaad, the 7-4 favourite, finished second, while Distant Storm was third and Zavateri fourth. O'Brien's runner gave the form a solid look. Meanwhile, Pierre Bonnard, another O'Brien colt, won the Zetland Stakes over 10 furlongs, marking him as a potential Derby contender next season.
