3 minute read

Excellantes back in form with a good win in the Ascot Handicap.

Excellantes began well and settled in a perfect spot, third on the rails, following a quick pace (first 600m 34.52).

Damian Browne got him through along the rails on turning for home, before taking the lead at the 200m. He then finished too well to score nicely by three quarters of a length with his top weight (59kg).

Mr Favulous worked in the early stages from his wide barrier (10) to take the lead. He then set at a solid pace and stuck to his task well when challenged, holding on gamely for a good second.

Steel Zip settled second last in the 12-horse field and remained there to the 600m. He switched wide at the 300m and made late ground to take third, beaten four lengths.

Seeking More raced outside the leader until into straight but only battled on from the 200m to finish (4.4 lengths) fourth.

The favourite Bymonashee was disappointing. He settled in last place, was under pressure on straightening and finished only fairly to finish (5.6 lengths) tenth.