'I don't know who backed him' - Stuart Williams left bemused after Oakley Boy lands Lingfield gamble

A hefty gamble was landed in the 5f nursery after Oakley Boy justified odds of 9-4 having been as big as 14-1 on Wednesday night.

The son of Mayson won a Chelmsford maiden on his second start in June, but was beaten 13 lengths when last of six on his most recent run at Yarmouth in September. Trainer Stuart Williams denied any stable involvement in the gamble and credited a return to the all-weather for the improved performance.

"I don't know who backed him," Williams said. "It's bizarre that these horses move in the market sometimes. It wasn't stable money anyway."

Oakley Boy, who was gelded in August and having his ninth start, raced prominently under Sean Levey in a first-time visor and took the lead from Roysdelight at the half-furlong pole. He won by half a length from the running-on Forager.

The trainer also handled the sprinter's half-brother Bring On A Spinner and believes the application of headgear may have also contributed.

"I thought he had a chance," he said. "He hasn't run a bad race on the all-weather, but his turf form is dreadful.

"We thought he was a bit weak in the finish at Chelmsford on his penultimate start and that headgear might help. It helped his brother, so we were hopeful and he worked nicely at home in it."

Harb flies home

Harb built on his second at the track last week to land the 5f handicap, with a late burst of speed securing victory over Recon Mission and Alafdhal for Shane Kelly and Peter Crate.

Looking for free bets? Racing Post have got the best offers, all in one place. Visit racingpost.com/freebets to find out more.