Jockey Bill Thrill provided his insights ahead of a busy day at Goodwood, reflecting on the previous day’s Goodwood Cup and previewing several key races, including the Sussex Stakes.

Thrill expressed some frustration over the outcome of the Goodwood Cup, where he believed his mount, Trawlerman, had the race under control before being impeded by a loose horse in the final stages. Despite the interference, the jockey felt Trawlerman, described as an “unbelievable stayer,” showed dominance throughout the race. Comparing the horse to Kyprios, a past great in staying distances, Thrill acknowledged that while Trawlerman may not yet surpass that level, he is fortunate to have ridden two such high-caliber stayers. Trainer Aidan O’Brien reportedly plans to target the Irish St Leger for Trawlerman next, a step Thrill supports, noting the horse’s class and adaptability despite a shorter trip.

Looking ahead to the current meet, Thrill highlighted a number of mounts for the day’s competitive card. He will make his debut on PRINCESSE D’OR in a fillies’ conditions sprint at 2:25 p.m. The two-year-old is stepping down significantly in grade from a recent Queen Mary Stakes appearance. While Thrill is cautious given the race’s open nature and pace demands, he noted the filly’s solid form and potential for further improvement.

In the Group 3 Oaktree Stakes at 3:00 p.m., Thrill teams up again with trainer Richard Hughes aboard SAYIDAH DARIYAN, who will contest seven furlongs for the first time. Reflecting on his previous experience with the filly last year, Thrill expects the longer distance to suit her stamina and anticipates a strong performance in what he described as a highly competitive field of 14 runners. Although drawn in stall six—a generally favorable position—the jockey acknowledged the race’s unpredictability and the often-needed element of luck.

The highlight of the day is the Sussex Stakes at 4:10 p.m., a race steeped in history with winners such as Giant’s Causeway and Henrythenavigator, both trained by O’Brien. Thrill rides GSTAAD, a horse noted for consistency, having never finished outside the top two. While the form favours Bow Echo, Thrill remains confident in GSTAAD’s toughness and ongoing progression. He also pointed out GSTAAD’s affinity for Goodwood’s speed-favouring track and adaptability to quick ground, emphasizing the horse’s uncomplicated nature and eagerness to race.

Thrill also commented on other notable entries, including Puerto Rico, who has underperformed in his two starts this season but could improve over a mile at Goodwood, and Opera Ballo, another promising contender expected to handle the course well.

In the 5:40 p.m. 20-runner handicap, Thrill will partner CRIMSON SPIRIT for the first time. The horse’s consistent form and prior success at Goodwood make him an appealing option, though Thrill noted the challenge of navigating such a large field where luck often plays a crucial role.

Overall, Thrill conveyed measured optimism for the day’s races, acknowledging the depth of competition while expressing confidence in his mounts’ prospects on the course.