Mercury Stakes report: Sir Maximilian clinches Dundalk gold
Last Updated: 25/10/14 12:26pm
British raider Sir Maximilian lunged late to deliver for favourite backers in the Listed Mercury Stakes at Dundalk.
The five-year-old has enjoyed a fine campaign under the tutelage of Tim Pitt, kicking off his campaign with a handicap victory at Chester before securing more high-profile successes at the Curragh and Tipperary.
After turning in arguably a career-best effort to finish seventh in the Prix de l'Abbaye at Longchamp at the start of the month, Sir Maxmilian then switched yards to rejoin Ian Williams, with whom he enjoyed a previous stint last year.
Sent off as the 7/4 favourite on his second debut for the Alvechurch handler, the son of Royal Applause had to be shaken up before the home turn by regular partner Stevie Donohoe, but came back on the bridle once straightened up for home.
Course and distance winner Abstraction briefly appeared to have flown heading towards the last of five furlongs, but Sir Maximilian engaged top gear late in the day and was ultimately well on top as he passed the post head to the good.
The ultra-consistent Russian Soul was back in third.
Donohoe said: "The bend comes a bit tight and quick and he lost his momentum and the other horse got first run.
"In fairness to the horse, he's done extremely well to win."
Williams said: "The plaudits should really go to Tim Pitt, who trained him all year until about a week ago.
"I bought him at the sales about two years ago for 30,000 guineas and I've watched him improve in the meantime.
"It's great for the owner and also great for Stevie. He didn't panic when he got checked and gave him a good ride.
"He'll probably have a break now and he'll probably go to Dubai after that. I've had winners at Galway before, but this is my first runner at Dundalk."