Protektorat (FR) reaffirmed his class and quality yesterday with a commanding victory in the Fitzdares Fleur De Lys Chase at Windsor. The 10-year-old gelding delivered a dominant front-running performance under Harry Skelton, jumping fluently and pulling clear before the third-last fence. On soft ground and over a trip of 2m6f, Protektorat was in his element, securing victory by an emphatic 23 lengths. Trainer Dan Skelton and connections, including co-owner Sir Alex Ferguson, were undoubtedly thrilled with the performance, which showcased why Protektorat remains one of the most reliable mid-distance chasers in the UK.

This latest victory, his first since a Grade 1 triumph at Cheltenham in March 2024, adds another chapter to a career that has been marked by notable highs and a consistent ability to compete at the highest level.


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A Career of Class and Consistency

Since beginning his career as a hurdler, Protektorat has developed into a standout chaser. With 7 wins from 29 starts, including victories in Grade 1 company, he has proven himself as a versatile and durable campaigner. His 33% win rate over fences is a testament to his adaptability and determination in a range of conditions and classes.

Highlights on the Track

Protektorat’s defining moment came at Cheltenham in March 2024, when he stormed to victory in the Grade 1 Ryanair Chase over 2m5f. On soft ground, he travelled strongly and asserted himself in the closing stages to secure a memorable win for the Skelton team. It was the kind of performance that underlined his ability to deliver on the big stage, especially when conditions are in his favour.

Other notable wins include his Grade 1 success at Haydock in November 2022, where he dominated a small but strong field over 3m1½f, and a Grade 2 victory at Aintree in December 2021, where he won by an eye-catching 25 lengths. These performances highlight his prowess when allowed to dictate and run to his strengths.


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Strengths and Challenges

Protektorat’s success owes much to his adaptability in terms of ground and trip. He has excelled on soft and heavy ground and appears most comfortable at distances between 2m4f and 2m6f, where his blend of stamina and tactical speed comes to the fore. His jumping is typically reliable, and his ability to dominate from the front often sees him put rivals under pressure early.

However, his record over extended trips has been less consistent. While he has competed with distinction in longer-distance races, such as the Cheltenham Gold Cup (5th in 2023), his stamina seems to fade when racing beyond three miles against top-tier opposition. This limitation, coupled with occasional inconsistency in ultra-competitive Grade 1 fields, has meant he falls short of being considered among the very elite staying chasers.


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Yesterday’s Win: A Statement Performance

At Windsor, Protektorat delivered one of his most assured performances in recent years. Leading from the outset, he jumped confidently and steadily built a lead that his rivals could not bridge. By the time he approached the closing stages, it was clear the race was his, and he cruised to the line without being extended. It was a perfect example of Protektorat’s ability to dominate under ideal conditions.

The race’s soft going and mid-range trip played to his strengths, and the omission of the water jump on both circuits further ensured a clean round. Runner-up Djelo (FR), a solid performer, finished a distant 23 lengths behind, emphasising the gulf in class on the day.


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A Look Ahead

At 10 years old, Protektorat remains highly capable and competitive, though he is likely approaching the twilight of his career. Connections may target prestigious mid-distance events in the coming months, such as the Ryanair Chase at Cheltenham or the Betfair Bowl at Aintree, both of which align with his strengths.

While it is unlikely he will be aimed at gruelling staying tests like the Cheltenham Gold Cup again, selective placements in races with soft ground and moderate distances could see him add to his already impressive record.


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Conclusion

Protektorat (FR) has carved out a reputation as one of the UK’s most reliable and talented chasers. From his early promise as a hurdler to his dominance over fences, he has delivered countless memorable performances for his connections. Yesterday’s win at Windsor serves as a reminder of his enduring quality and tactical brilliance. As he approaches the latter stages of his career, Protektorat remains a horse to watch, particularly when the conditions are right. A true warrior of the turf, he has already secured his place among the sport’s most consistent campaigners.