Leading Group One winning American trainer Wesley Ward has had all 12 of his Royal Ascot winning trophies stolen from his home in Kentucky by burglars.
A constant in the American racing scene, the trainer is also well know for being one of few trainers most seasons for bringing a good team of horses over to the UK for numerous races, especially at Royal Ascot.
Last seen winning the Commonwealth Cup with Campanelle in a stewards enquiry at last year's meeting, the handler has talked of his hurt from a sentimental value and not just from a monetary value.
The trophies included the one presented to him by the Queen after he won the Group 1 Diamond Jubilee Stakes with Undrafted in 2015, alongside other high profile wins he has acquired over the last 20 years.
(Credit Racing Post) Ward said: "Those are my most precious gifts other than my kids.
"Being a country boy and being able to meet the Queen of England, it was certainly a memory that not only I but [my kids will] never forget. It's just a big loss today.
"They knew they had a certain amount of time when they could go in and come out. [My oldest son] has been going to Royal Ascot with me since he was ten so it's a big loss for him as well."
The police department local to Ward confirmed an investigation is under way and matters have been helped slightly with CCTV inside Ward's home captured an image of the person who is believed to be responsible for the thefts.
