Hopewell Rock maintains unbeaten record to tee up exciting three-year-old season

Hopewell Rock established himself as an exciting type for next season by following up his debut win with a gutsy performance in the mile juvenile novice despite ground conditions going against him.

The George Boughey-trained runner was sent off 8-13 and held off Godolphin's Castle Gates by three-quarters of a length under Billy Loughnane. His task was made harder by the heavy going and the fact he had to carry a 6lb penalty having defeated a field of bright prospects at Newbury in August.

Victory was one of two on the day for the trainer and owner Sheikh Mohammed Obaid after Gracious Leader's victory at Ayr, while Loughnane also struck aboard Balmoral Lady in the 5½f handicap for Ed Walker.

"He's raw and did well to win on his debut at Newbury," said Boughey. "He won that without liking the ground. Billy thought he'd pick up quicker so he'll stay further than a mile, but he did it nicely. He's got a good way of going so is one to look forward to next season.

"He'll only be a better three-year-old and we'll see how he gets on and develops. He has a patient owner in Sheikh Mohammed Obaid, who likes his horses to flourish at three."

Breeze strikes 50-1 blow

Richard Hughes continued his excellent form when Alika Breeze recorded a 50-1 shock in the mile handicap under Finley Marsh. The winner was the trainer's seventh victory in the last fortnight from just 23 runners.

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