3 minute read

Boynton got the better of hot favourite War Decree after a pulsating duel to take the bet365 Superlative Stakes at Newmarket.

The two principals pulled well clear of the rest of the field to suggest the form of this Group Two contest could be top drawer.

Boynton (7-1) had made a winning debut at Goodwood, while War Decreehad also impressed on his only previous start at Leopardstown.

Though the Aidan O'Brien-trained colt was sent off the even-money favourite, he had to play second fiddle to Boynton.

He was ridden by Adam Kirby, who is having a stellar season and was replacing the suspended William Buick on the Godolphin-owned son of More Than Ready.

The Charlie Appleby-trained youngster asserted in the final 100 yards, winning by three-quarters of a length, to show he is an exciting prospect. Mr Scaramanga was third.

Kirby said: "He's a galloper and really sticks his head out.

"I wound him up in nice time and he stayed at it very strong - it's all good.

"He's a lovely action - a great mover - and his future is quite bright."

Appleby said: "He did a piece of work last Saturday on the Limekilns and we were very happy with what we saw.

"He has so mentally come on for that run. William (Buick) gave him a lovely ride at Goodwood and said he was a cut-above average.

"Adam had sat on him at home as well and let him come into the race in his own time. He let him find his feet and he galloped on strongly.

"We'll go to Ireland maybe and have a look at the National Stakes (Curragh), but I'll sit back and let the horse do the talking.

"We'll let him come back and see how he is."

Frankel colt Cunco could only finish fourth, but trainer John Gosden was not too disheartened.

The Clarehaven handler said: "He is an interesting character and he ran perfectly well.

"I think the first two are too good for him. We are very happy with him and we will keep rolling with him in these sort of races."