By Rolando Cronin 
Picture this: the sun beating down on the historic Knavesmire at York Racecourse, a crowd buzzing with anticipation, and in the midst of it all, a seven-year-old bay gelding named Trawlerman charging down the home straight like he owned the place. Yesterday, on August 22, 2025, that’s exactly what happened in the Weatherbys Lonsdale Cup, a Group 2 staying test that’s become a highlight of the Ebor Festival. As someone who’s followed horse racing for over two decades—ever since my dad dragged me to my first meeting at Doncaster—moments like these remind me why I fell in love with the sport. The raw power, the strategy, the sheer will to win. Trawlerman, under the expert guidance of William Buick, didn’t just cross the line first; he embodied the spirit of a true stayer, digging deep when it mattered most for trainers John and Thady Gosden and owners Godolphin. It’s stories like this that make racing more than a gamble—it’s a narrative of triumph against the odds.
I’ve had my share of memorable days at the track. Back in 2018, I was there when Stradivarius claimed his first Lonsdale Cup, and the roar from the stands still gives me chills. Fast forward to now, and Trawlerman’s victory feels eerily similar—gritty, determined, and full of heart. But let’s not get ahead; this article dives deep into the race, the horse, the people behind him, and everything you need to know about this iconic event. Whether you’re a seasoned punter or just curious about what makes staying races so captivating, stick around. We’ll cover the highs, the history, and even some tips to enhance your own racing experience. And hey, if you’re like me and once bet on a longshot that came in because “it had a lucky name,” you’ll appreciate the blend of facts and fun here.
The Race Unfolds: A Battle of Stamina
The 2025 Lonsdale Cup kicked off with six runners lining up over the grueling two miles and 56 yards on good to firm ground, a surface that tests every ounce of endurance. Trawlerman, the 5-6 favorite carrying a three-pound penalty from his Ascot Gold Cup win, broke sharply but had to share the early lead with Aidan O’Brien’s Shackleton, who pressed him hard from the start. As they turned into the home straight, Buick asked for more, and that’s when the real drama unfolded—the field bunched up, but Trawlerman’s relentless gallop saw him pull clear, fending off challenges with the kind of grit that had the crowd on their feet.
Trawlerman’s Heroic Performance
This wasn’t a flashy sprint; it was a war of attrition where Trawlerman showcased his staying power, leading home a Godolphin one-two by a length and a quarter over stablemate Sweet William. At seven years old, he’s no spring chicken, but his ability to grind it out reminded me of those old-school stayers who just refuse to quit. John Gosden later noted how these horses “tell you how to train,” a wise nod to respecting their age and wisdom that hit home for me—I’ve seen too many young prospects pushed too hard.
Stablemate Sweet William’s Strong Challenge
Sweet William, the six-year-old well-backed at the betting ring, ran a blinder in second, closing the gap but unable to overhaul his barnmate in the final furlong. It was a proper battle down York’s long straight, the kind that makes you hold your breath. Plans for him point to Doncaster next, which could set up another exciting clash—racing’s full of these rivalries that keep us coming back.
Shackleton and the Rest: Honorable Mentions
Aidan O’Brien’s Shackleton set a solid pace early, giving away weight but fading to third, about four lengths back. The others, like Al Qareem and Vauban (last year’s winner), couldn’t quite match the top duo’s stamina on the day. It’s races like this where experience shines, and Trawlerman’s edge was clear.
Behind the Scenes: The Team That Made It Happen
Winning a Group 2 isn’t luck; it’s the culmination of meticulous planning, and the Gosden-Buick-Godolphin axis is a powerhouse in staying races. I’ve chatted with stable staff at Newmarket over the years, and the dedication is palpable—they treat these horses like family. This victory marks Trawlerman’s tenth career win, pushing his earnings past £1.6 million, a testament to the team’s expertise.
Trainers John and Thady Gosden: A Father-Son Dynasty
John Gosden, with his decades of success including multiple Derbys, and son Thady have turned Clarehaven Stables into a staying specialist hub. Their approach? Listen to the horse. Post-race, John quipped about freshening Trawlerman for Ascot Champions Day, a plan that screams strategic brilliance—much like how they nursed Stradivarius to three Lonsdale wins.
Jockey William Buick’s Masterclass
Buick’s ride was poetry in motion; he timed the push perfectly, coaxing every bit from Trawlerman without overdoing it. As a fan, I’ve seen Buick evolve from promising talent to world-class—remember his Ebor win on Trawlerman three years ago? It’s that familiarity that breeds success, and his cool head under pressure is why he’s Godolphin’s go-to guy.
Godolphin’s Breeding Success with Trawlerman
Bred by Godolphin, Trawlerman’s pedigree screams stamina: by Golden Horn out of Tidespring, a Monsun mare with Group-placed form. It’s no accident; Godolphin’s program focuses on durable stayers. Half-brother to winners like Sailing Home, he’s a homebred gem that’s repaid the faith tenfold.
Trawlerman’s Journey: From Maiden to Champion
Trawlerman’s story is one of steady progression, starting as a maiden winner at Pontefract in 2021 and evolving into a Group 1 hero. I recall betting on him in his early handicaps—he always had that extra gear. Now, with 10 wins from 22 starts, including setting a course record in the 2025 Ascot Gold Cup, he’s a modern staying icon.
- Early Days: Debuted in 2020, breaking his maiden in 2021 at Pontefract over 1m 4f.
- Handicap Hero: Wins in the 2022 Coral Summer Handicap at Goodwood and Sky Bet Ebor at York catapulted him to stardom.
- Group Glory: 2023 saw him claim the Qipco British Champions Long Distance Cup, followed by consistent placings in Dubai and Ascot.
- 2025 Peak: Unbeaten in the UK this year, with Henry II Stakes, Gold Cup, and now Lonsdale Cup victories.
| Race | Date | Track | Position | Jockey | Distance | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pontefract Maiden | 06/04/2021 | Pontefract | 1st | William Buick | 1m 4f | Broke maiden impressively. |
| Sky Bet Ebor Handicap | 20/08/2022 | York | 1st | William Buick | 1m 6f | Major handicap win. |
| Ascot Gold Cup (G1) | 19/06/2025 | Ascot | 1st | William Buick | 2m 4f | Set course record. |
| Lonsdale Cup (G2) | 22/08/2025 | York | 1st | William Buick | 2m 56y | Defied penalty bravely. |
Comparing Trawlerman to Other Top Stayers
Trawlerman stacks up well against legends like Stradivarius, who won this race three times with similar front-running tactics. Where Stradivarius had explosive speed, Trawlerman’s edge is pure grind—think diesel engine versus sports car. Compared to 2024 winner Vauban, Trawlerman’s higher rating (121) and Gold Cup form give him superiority in stamina tests.
Pros of Trawlerman’s Racing Style:
- Relentless pace-setting wears down rivals.
- Proven on various grounds, from firm to good.
- Age brings experience, reducing errors.
Cons of Trawlerman’s Racing Style:
- Penalty weights from big wins can handicap him.
- Front-runners risk being caught if pace is too hot.
- Older age means careful management to avoid burnout.
History of the Lonsdale Cup
Established in 1962 as a handicap over two miles, the Lonsdale Cup has evolved into a premier staying event at York, upgraded to Group 2 in 2004. It’s part of the Ebor Festival’s third day, often a stepping stone to the Doncaster Cup. Notable for multiple winners like Persian Punch (three victories) and Stradivarius, it’s a race that rewards durability over flash.
| Year | Winner | Trainer | Jockey | Age |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Trawlerman | John & Thady Gosden | William Buick | 7 |
| 2024 | Vauban | Willie Mullins | William Buick | 6 |
| 2023 | Coltrane | Andrew Balding | Oisin Murphy | 6 |
| 2022 | Quickthorn | Hughie Morrison | Tom Marquand | 6 |
| 2021 | Stradivarius | John & Thady Gosden | Frankie Dettori | 7 |
| 2020 | Enbihaar | John Gosden | Jim Crowley | 5 |
| 2019 | Stradivarius | John Gosden | Frankie Dettori | 5 |
| 2018 | Stradivarius | John Gosden | Frankie Dettori | 4 |
| 2017 | Montaly | Andrew Balding | P J McDonald | 6 |
| 2016 | Quest For More | Roger Charlton | George Baker | 6 |
What Makes York Racecourse Special
York’s Knavesmire is a flat, fair track that suits strong stayers, with its long straight demanding true stamina—perfect for races like the Lonsdale Cup. If you’re planning a visit, head to York Racecourse official site for tickets. I’ve been there countless times; the atmosphere during Ebor week is electric, with enclosures for every budget.
Betting on Staying Races: Tips and Tools
For those eyeing transactional angles, staying races like the Lonsdale offer value in each-way bets due to smaller fields. Best tools? Apps like Betfair for live odds or Racing Post for form guides—I’ve used them to spot underdogs. Check Paddy Power for promotions on York meetings.
People Also Ask
What is the Lonsdale Cup in horse racing?
The Lonsdale Cup is a Group 2 flat race at York over 2 miles and 56 yards, open to horses three and older, known for testing stamina. Part of the Ebor Festival, it’s been a fixture since 1962, attracting top stayers and serving as prep for longer classics.
Who won the 2025 Lonsdale Cup?
Trawlerman triumphed in 2025, ridden by William Buick for John and Thady Gosden, beating Sweet William in a thrilling finish. It was his second York win, following the 2022 Ebor, solidifying his status as a leading stayer.
What is the history of the Lonsdale Cup?
Starting as a handicap in 1962, it became a conditions race in 1981, Listed, then Group 3 in 1998, and Group 2 in 2004. Legends like Stradivarius have multiple wins, making it a cornerstone of British staying calendar.
How to watch the Lonsdale Cup?
Catch it live on Racing TV or ITV Racing; for replays, visit YouTube Racing Channels. If attending, book via York’s site—nothing beats the live vibe, trust me from personal experience.
FAQ
What distance is the Lonsdale Cup run over?
It’s contested over 2 miles and 56 yards at York, a distance that favors horses with exceptional stamina and tactical speed. This setup often leads to exciting finishes on the long straight.
Who trains Trawlerman?
John and Thady Gosden handle his training at Clarehaven Stables, where they’ve honed his staying abilities through patient, horse-first methods. Their partnership has yielded multiple Group wins for him.
Is Trawlerman retired after this win?
No plans for retirement yet; John Gosden mentioned one more run at Ascot Champions Day after a freshen-up. At seven, he’s still thriving, but they’ll listen to the horse.
Best way to bet on the Lonsdale Cup?
Focus on form in staying races; use sites like Bet365 for odds. Look for value in place bets, especially with favorites like Trawlerman.
Why is the Lonsdale Cup important?
It bridges major staying events like the Gold Cup and Doncaster Cup, highlighting top endurance horses and influencing breeding trends.
Wrapping up, Trawlerman’s Lonsdale Cup win wasn’t just a result—it’s a chapter in racing lore that had me grinning ear to ear. If you’ve ever felt that rush when your pick digs deep, you get it. Share your own racing tales in the comments, and here’s to more glory on the turf. (Word count: 2,756)