Trainer Andrew Balding declared his recent King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes victory with Kalpana as the pinnacle of his 2,000 career wins. Kalpana secured the prestigious Royal Ascot race, overcoming last year's champion, Calandagan, by one and a half lengths.

This win holds special significance for Balding, marking a career highlight after 25 years of training. He expressed deep emotion, noting Kalpana's long tenure with his stable and the affection she's garnered. Balding acknowledged the strength of this year's field, making the victory even more remarkable.

The win comes six months after the passing of Balding's father, the renowned trainer Ian Balding, who himself won the King George in 1971. This triumph, coupled with another win at York, has propelled Balding into contention in the trainer's championship, closing in on leader Aiden O’Brien. Kalpana is now slated to compete in the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.