The Ascot Gold Cup Poem by Paul Reed

Estimate returned to her field of glory
Once again on greatness to lean
We watched as you calmly walked beforehand
On our little computer screen;

They placed a hood over your head
But for that there was no need
Your willingness was not in doubt
To be coaxed, to follow, or to lead

Missunited set a good gallop
She pressed hard along the way
Knowing that if you were to pass her
The entire trip you had to stay

Brown Panther lurked in waiting
Leading Light on the wide outside
You strode regally in behind
Seemingly no effort to your stride

Then, the race was on!
The Panther skulked away
Leaving just a line of three
To fight out the finish that day

For although having given up her lead
Missunited was down only a couple of necks
She was fighting bravely on with you
To see who could deny the fairer sex

Moore switched inside and spied a gap
And you gamely rushed on through
The Queen's pale complexion
Took on a pinker hue

The roar from the crowd swelled out
From grandstand over parade ring
As the final fight was fought
With stamina to be the king

Leading Light swayed under the strain
And hung into the middle of the course
Surely now he could not resist
Estimate's finishing force

But no! he straightened and rallied
And surged again with widened eyes
Your flashing hooves not quite quick enough
To retain your Gold Cup prize

When all was done, the Queen still wore a smile
As she had from the beginning
She calmly accepted your gallant defeat
As gracefully as your winning