We were delighted to welcome a winning double at Haydock on Wednesday (4th July), as Sergeant Pep landed his first win of the year and Definitive secured a smart success on her career debut.
First in the winner’s enclosure was our promising newcomer, Definitive, who kicked off her two-year-old campaign in a gamely fashion, putting a comfortable length and a half between her and the field in this 6f Maiden Stakes on her very first outing. With a split in the field, the far side had the advantage where she held rank decisively amongst the group of three runners, before stealing the inside rail and storming home when asked for more by Rossa Ryan. This was a valiant effort from her, and we couldn’t ask for more from this very strong debut. She is an exciting filly that holds much potential, and we look forward to how she will improve from this. A very pleasing two-year-old result for the team and delighted for her owner, Sheikh Isa.
Quick to follow suit was Sergeant Pep, who also finished strongly in front by half a length in the 6f Handicap. Now a four-year-old, he finished last season on a high with a nice win at Bath – which subsequently marked our 1,000th winner – but has had a handful of unlucky starts so far this year, so we were very pleased to see him off the mark again for his connections from Middleham Park Racing. Sat mid-division, with Dougie Costello on board, he gathered pace nicely past halfway but had to work hard when short of room. After switching to the nearside, daylight opened-up and he changed gears superbly with a striking turn of foot to come home in front. This is a great result for him and a fantastic day on the track for the team at home.
