'He could be anything' - Dianne Sayer thrilled as Detective extends unbeaten run

Monday: Carlisle

Trainer Dianne Sayer has high hopes for Detective after he won the mile handicap by three-quarters of a length, his fourth victory from nine starts at the track.

The six-year-old was also recording a second win of the season having struck at Hamilton earlier this month.

"He could be anything," Sayer said. "He's still learning his trade and it was really good to see him go and do it in a slightly better class.

"We were asking him to step up in trip, but the rain probably helped him. He's not ground dependant, but being bottom weight wasn’t a problem to him as it was a little bit softer.

"He loves Carlisle and it’s a local track to us. They do a fantastic job and from an owner's perspective you want to go to the tracks that are more welcoming."

Sayer's string have been going well with ten winners across both codes since the turn of the year.

"We're very lucky to have fit horses and that we have avoided illnesses,” Sayer added. "Sometimes you can’t help some situations, but everyone wants healthy horses.

"They’re doing the job for us, we have a very small team, so it’s wonderful they’re doing their bit."

Sayer completed a double on the card as The Navigator justified favouritism in the 1m3f handicap.

Easterby joy

There was an upset in the 6f handicap as 20-1 shot Nearly A Gonna scored by four lengths under Phil Dennis.

The Tim Easterby-trained five-year-old was making his first start in 224 days, finishing ahead of King Of Tonga.

Results, replays and analysis

Don't miss the Racing Post Royal Ascot Guide 2022. Only £14.99, the 192-page guide is packed with tips and information for the five-day festival of top-class Flat racing, including profiles of the leading horses and the lowdown on the top trainers and jockeys. Order your copy here or call 01933 304858.