Unlike his high-profile owner, it has taken Brown Panther time to hit the heights.
Michael Owen launched himself on to the international stage when his speed resulted in a wonder goal for England against Argentina in 1998 that made him an overnight sensation on Planet Football.
In contrast, Brown Panther has been a slow burner and, only at the age of six is he now considered a worthy candidate for Gold Cup glory at Royal Ascot on Thursday.
Brown Panther’s easy triumph in the Henry II Stakes at Sandown last month was the crowning achievement of his 20-race career.
Co-owner Andrew Black saw enough in that power-packed run to believe that his standard-bearer has a realistic chance of repeating his victory at the royal meeting in 2011 when he won the King George V Stakes.
“I think he’ll win it,” Black said. “To me he looks more like a marathon runner now and has more muscle around his middle. He looks like he isn’t burning energy at the same rate as before.”
It will be quite a day for Owen. The former striker will watch the race before he is required as a pundit for British television for England’s match with Uruguay at the World Cup.
If Brown Panther would be a topical victor, so would Estimate, who memorably became Queen Elizabeth’s 22nd winner at her meeting 12 months ago.
“The Queen never expects anything, that’s why she’s so extraordinary,” said John Warren, her racing manager.
“She’s the best loser you could hope for. She’s a realist. If you’ve owned horses for as long as she has, you’ve been through every hiccup.”
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